Have you ever heard about something called bruxism? It might sound like a big word, but don’t worry; we’re here to break it down for you in the simplest way possible. Bruxism is when people grind or clench their teeth when they’re sleeping.
Sometimes, they might not even know they’re doing it. But why does this happen? Well, it could be because of stress, anxiety, or even misaligned teeth. Imagine your teeth are like superheroes, working hard all day to chew your food and help you smile.
But when bruxism strikes at night, it’s like they’re in a battle they didn’t sign up for. That’s where night guards near you swoop in to save the day.
What are Night Guards?
Night guards are like cozy little blankets for your teeth. They’re made of soft, flexible material that you wear while you sleep. Think of them as shields that protect your teeth from the harmful effects of grinding and clenching.
So, the next question is: do night guards help bruxism? Absolutely.
- Cushioning Blow: Grinding your teeth is like participating in a wrestling match without any padding. Ouch! But wearing a night guard adds a cushioning layer, so your teeth aren’t bumping and grinding against each other.
- Preventing Damage: Just like how helmets protect our heads during sports, night guards protect our teeth from getting chipped or worn down. They take the brunt of the force, so your teeth can stay strong and healthy.
- Relaxation Station: Night guards help relax those tense jaw muscles. It’s like giving them a comfy pillow to rest on so they don’t feel the need to clench and grind all night long.
Types of Night Guards
You can choose from various types of night guards, as all are great options for protecting your teeth.
- Custom Fit: These night guards are made just for you. Your dentist takes impressions of your teeth and creates a guard that fits perfectly, like a glove. It’s super comfortable and offers the best protection.
- Boil-and-Bite: These guards are like DIY projects. You soften them in hot water, then bite down to create a mould that fits your teeth. While they might not be as snug as custom-fit guards, they still provide good protection and are budget-friendly.
- Stock Guards: These guards come ready-made in standard sizes. They’re like one-size-fits-all hats, but for your teeth. While they’re the most affordable option, they might not offer the best comfort or protection since they aren’t customized to your mouth.
Taking Care of Your Night Guard
Just like how you take care of your toys to make them last longer, you need to take care of your night guard, too. Orthodontics in Calgary can also provide you with expert advice on choosing and maintaining your night guard. Here’s how you can maintain it:
- Clean it: Rinse your night guard with cold water every morning to wash away any saliva or gunk. You can also brush it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Keep it safe: When you’re not wearing your night guard, store it in its case. You don’t want it to get lost or accidentally squished.
- Regular check-ups: Your dentist will check your night guard during dental visits to ensure it’s still in good shape. They’ll help you get a new one if it’s worn out or damaged.
Final Thoughts
Night guards might seem like tiny superheroes, but they play a big role in protecting our teeth from the criminal effects of bruxism. Whether you opt for a custom-fit guard or a boil-and-bite one, remember that wearing it every night is the key to keeping your teeth happy and healthy.
So, next time you tuck yourself into bed, remember to slip on your trusty night guard and let it work its magic while you enjoy sweet dreams. Calgary Spine & Sport offers tailor-made night guards for bruxism protection. Trust our expertise to safeguard your teeth while you sleep, ensuring comfort and effectiveness against tooth grinding.