Nightguards
Dentist in Bradenton, FL
Nightguards, also known as nocturnal bite plates or occlusal splints, are dental devices designed to protect the teeth and oral structures during the night. They are custom-made and placed over the upper or lower teeth to prevent direct contact between them and to prevent excessive wear, as well as other conditions related to nocturnal bruxism.
Nightguards play a crucial role in protecting teeth and overall oral health, especially for those who suffer from nocturnal bruxism or teeth clenching. These devices help prevent premature tooth wear, reduce pressure on the jaw and facial muscles, and can alleviate symptoms associated with bruxism, such as headaches and jaw discomfort.
Benefits for the patient:
- Protection of Tooth Structure: Bruxism can cause significant wear and damage to tooth enamel over time. Nightguards provide a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other during sleep. This helps preserve the tooth structure and prevent tooth sensitivity, fractures, and other forms of dental damage.
- Prevention of Jaw Pain and Discomfort: Teeth grinding and clenching can exert excessive pressure on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, leading to temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) and associated symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and earaches. Nightguards help alleviate these symptoms by reducing the intensity of grinding forces and promoting proper jaw alignment during sleep.
- Reduction of Headaches and Facial Pain: Chronic teeth grinding and jaw clenching are common triggers for tension headaches and facial pain. By providing a cushioning effect and promoting muscle relaxation, nightguards can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches and facial discomfort associated with bruxism and TMD.
- Improvement of Sleep Quality: Bruxism can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to sleep disturbances such as insomnia and frequent awakenings. Nightguards create a more comfortable oral environment, allowing patients to sleep more soundly without the disruptive effects of teeth grinding or jaw clenching.
- Preservation of Restorations: Patients with dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or veneers are particularly vulnerable to damage from bruxism. Nightguards help protect these restorations by distributing biting forces evenly and reducing the risk of chipping, cracking, or dislodging dental work.
Dental Evaluation
Impressions Taking:
Nightguard Fabrication:
Using the dental impressions, a custom Nightguard that fits the patient’s mouth perfectly is fabricated.