Nightguards
In Sedalia, MO

Nightguards, also known as dental or mouth guards, are designed to prevent the harmful effects of teeth grinding. Made from durable acrylic resin, these guards can be either soft or hard. Dentists typically recommend wearing a nightguard over the upper front teeth to prevent contact with the lower front teeth during sleep.

For severe teeth grinding, a guard for the lower teeth might be suggested. Besides protecting the teeth, mouthguards also cushion the jaw muscles.

Bruxism, the habit of grinding teeth, can occur during the day or while sleeping and is often triggered by anger, stress, or anxiety. This unconscious habit can negatively impact oral health. Dentists may recommend using a nightguard in conjunction with anxiety treatments, such as medication or therapy, to protect your teeth.

While nightguards do not completely stop teeth grinding, they can help prevent damage to fillings, tooth chipping or loosening, and excessive wear of tooth enamel. Additionally, using a nightguard can improve sleep quality and alleviate bruxism-related symptoms.

Symptoms of bruxism include:

The TMJ, or temporomandibular joints, are essential for the movement of your mouth. Grinding your teeth can lead to problems with these joints, resulting in TMJ disorders characterized by jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, and a locked jaw. TMJ issues can also stem from inflammation or jaw injuries. Using nightguards while you sleep can help align your jaws properly and reduce muscle tension, alleviating TMJ symptoms. Nightguards can also provide relief from other TMJ-related issues, including: