Preventative Dentistry at Woodville & Seaton Dental Clinic
Nightguards
A nightguard is a plastic shield that acts as a barrier or buffer between your teeth. A nightguard is used for reducing the effects of clenching and grinding teeth (Bruxism).
At Woodville & Seaton Dental Clinic we offer nightguards that are individually designed to custom fit your mouth.
With a custom-made nightguard the impacts of teeth grinding and clenching can be reduced, preserving your smile - and may help you get a good night’s sleep!
Schedule A Dental Appointment Today.
Grinding and clenching teeth is often done unconsciously while asleep. And it is often difficult to control or stop. It can leave you with pain, wear away your tooth enamel, damage your teeth, and cause other signs and symptoms such as:
- headaches
- earaches
- jaw aches
- sore jaw joints
- sensitive, loosened or broken teeth
- chipped teeth and tooth erosion
- facial muscle pain
- reduced mouth opening
There are many reasons why we clench and grind our teeth – and stress may be a major factor.
Other reasons may be due to missing teeth or crooked teeth – so grinding your teeth is your way to try and get them to meet naturally.
If you are experiencing any of these issues, a nightguard might be your solution.
A nightguard works similar to a mouthguard.
It acts as a barrier between your top and lower teeth. A nightguard is worn over your top row teeth, helping your jaw take a more relaxed position.
By separating the teeth, the nightguard prevents the teeth from grinding against each other, and reduces the possibility of tooth damage.
The night guard may not stop the grinding, but it will stop your teeth from grinding against each other and wearing each other down.
A custom-made and professionally fitted nightguard is the best nightguard to manage and treat the clenching and grinding of your teeth.
Your custom fitted night guard is tailored to the contours of your mouth, and responsive to your individual needs – and it’s easy to use!
For the dentist to make your custom fitted nightguard, an impression is taken of your teeth. It is then sent to a local laboratory where it is created for you.
Your nightguard is made from a strong clear acrylic. It’s smaller and less bulky than a mouthguard, making it generally easier and faster to get used to.
At Woodville & Seaton Dental Clinic a custom made nightguard is fitted properly to your teeth and bite. Dr Justin Martin (Dentist) will adjust your night guard so it is comfortable to wear, day or night.
Your nightguard should be treated with care. Avoid dropping or rough handling.
Clean with warm soapy water and then rinse with fresh cold water.
You should avoid putting your nightguard in hot or boiling water. Special care is needed to avoid calcium build-up, mould, yellow stains, or nightguard discoloration.
At regular check-ups your night guard is reviewed and kept in top condition.
If you would like to know more about our nightguards and how they can benefit you, please contact our Woodville Road clinic on 08 8268 5422 or request an appointment online.
