5 Signs You Might Need a Nightguard

Nightguard Services at Washington Courthouse Dental

According to research by the National Library of Medicine, 31% of American adults grind their teeth at night, and most are completely unaware of it. Some people have no symptoms, while others experience discomfort or develop damaged teeth and other potential problems. A custom nightguard is typically recommended to protect the teeth from damage caused by excessive teeth grinding or clenching. At Washington Courthouse Dental, located in Washington Court House, OH, we can help you find the best options for your oral health.

Overview of a Night Guard

A dental guard is a hard or soft plastic piece that entirely or partially covers the teeth of individuals with bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) to protect them from further damage and your dental health. The primary purpose of a night guard is to keep your upper and top teeth apart so that they do not wear or crack under the pressure of grinding or clenching. A night guard will spread the bite pressures, ease stress, and stop excessive wear.

5 Signs That You Might Need a Night Guard

The five signs below may suggest that you should wear a dental nightguard while you sleep:

1. Jaw-Popping Sounds: Bruxism can cause changes in the posture of your jaw joints. Your jaw may make clicking, cracking, or even snapping noises. These sounds are most noticeable when you open your mouth to bite, chew, or talk.
2. Tooth or Jaw Pain: Your teeth and jaw muscles may get inflamed from grinding, making them ache, feel stiff, or cause painful jaw discomfort when you wake up.
3. Difficulty Chewing: Teeth grinding can put tension and strain on your jaw muscles, causing them to inflame. Your jaw may pain and feel stiff in the morning, making chewing a challenge.
4. Morning Headaches: Teeth grinding is associated with headaches in the morning. Grinding puts pressure on your jaws, which can cause a severe headache along with tooth pain.
5. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder: TMJ disorder is caused by inflammation of the jaw muscles. The primary cause of this issue is teeth clenching and grinding. If you are diagnosed with TMJ disorder, your dentist will most likely recommend wearing a night guard to reduce the grinding and pain caused by the disorder.

What are the Benefits of Getting a Night Guard?

There are several benefits to getting a nightguard. People grind their teeth at night, and nightguards can help reduce the pain of migraines caused by grinding. Additionally, nightguards help prevent jaw disorders from developing like Temporomandibular Joint Disorders. TMJ is caused by bruxism, which results from the pressure of teeth grinding on the muscles, nerves, and ligaments surrounding the jaw. A night guard might help decrease muscle stress and TMJ pain.

What to Expect During Night Guard Appointment at Washington Court House Dental

Here is what to expect from your first nightguard appointment:

• Your dental impressions will be taken to create a model by your doctor.
• A better fit is created for the mouthguard to ensure it fits properly.
• Your dentist will sharpen the edges and make any required modifications to achieve the ideal shape and size.
• Wear the guard simply while you sleep each night.

Get Night Guard in Washington Court House, Ohio Today

If you or a family member suffer from jaw clenching, chronic headaches, or severe tooth pain, you might need a nightguard. At Washington Court House Dental, we create a personalized dental treatment plan for our patients to ensure healthy teeth. Contact our dental office today for high-quality care, treatment options, and any dental issues you may have, or visit our website to schedule your appointment.