Night Guards
In Austin, TX

Nightguards, also referred to as dental guards or mouth guards, are utilized to prevent the harmful consequences of teeth grinding. Typically crafted from a sturdy material known as acrylic resin, they come in both soft and hard varieties. Your dentist may advise wearing the nightguard over the upper front teeth to prevent contact with the lower front teeth during sleep.

For individuals with severe teeth grinding, a dental guard for the lower teeth may be recommended. In addition to safeguarding the teeth, mouthguards also offer support and cushioning for the jaw muscles.

Bruxism, the act of grinding teeth, can happen during the day or while sleeping. It is often triggered by emotions like anger, stress, or anxiety and is typically done without awareness. However, this habit can negatively impact oral health. Dentists may recommend wearing a nightguard in addition to anxiety treatments like medication or therapy to safeguard your teeth.

While night guards may not eliminate teeth grinding entirely, they can assist in preventing damage to fillings, tooth chipping or loosening, and excessive wear of tooth enamel. Additionally, using a nightguard may improve sleep quality and alleviate symptoms associated with bruxism.

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are crucial for mouth movement. Grinding teeth can lead to TMJ issues, causing symptoms like jaw pain, clicking sounds, and a locked jaw. Inflammation or jaw injuries can also trigger TMJ. Wearing nightguards while sleeping can help align jaws and reduce muscle tension, providing relief from TMJ symptoms.