Everyone loves going to bed early and waking up feeling refreshed. Unfortunately, getting a good night of sleep is sometimes easier said than done. Many people suffer from the effects of subconsciously grinding their teeth and clenching their jaw, otherwise known as bruxism.

What is a night guard?
As you fall asleep, your teeth should lay flat against one another. However, bruxism can cause excessive tension within your mouth. A night guard can alleviate unwanted pressure and protect your teeth as you sleep.

Night guards are thin, clear covers that fit over the top of your teeth. They come with two separate pieces; one for your top row of teeth and one for the bottom. Since they act as a protective barrier, they should fit snugly without added pressure or pain. All you have to do is apply them to your teeth before bed and remove them before taking on your day!

Common Signs You May Need a Night Guard
Are you wondering, “Do I need a night guard?” While the answer can vary for every person, there are a few warning signs you should keep in mind if you are considering the investment. If you notice any of the following concerns, it might be time to take the leap:

• Frequent Headaches
• Fatigue
• Sore Teeth or Jaw
• Unexpected Chipped Teeth
• Inner cheek damage
• Other unexplained oral pain or discomfort

Please stop by Bright Dentistry in Colorado Springs if any of these symptoms sound familiar. While night guards can alleviate discomfort, our team can also provide resources and recommendations to enhance your oral health. Your well-being is our primary concern, and we are here to ensure your teeth look and feel fantastic (and you can grab a complimentary mimosa while you’re here, so it’s a no-brainer if you ask us)!

Store Bought VS Custom Made Night Guards

There are various types of night guards, we can break them down into two primary categories: store-bought and custom-made. Let’s explore their key differences.

Store-Bought Night Guards
For people who are in a pinch and need a night guard immediately, over-the-counter night guards are available in stores. Many places will sell “as-is” guards that you wear straight out of the packaging, and others will sell “boil-and-bite” guards, which are slightly more customizable.

While store-bought guards are relatively cheaper and do not require a dental visit, they are not durable and do not provide a perfect fit. In fact, since many store-bought guards have excess room between the teeth and the guard, they can cause unnecessary damage when utilized over a long time. Store-bought night guards are an excellent choice if you forget to bring a custom night guard on a trip or need a quick, short-term solution. However, we always recommend investing in a custom guard for long-term, efficient protection.

Custom-made Night Guards
The best way to protect your teeth from nighttime bruxism is with a custom night guard. Custom guards require a dentist appointment, and professionals will create a one-of-a-kind guard using a dental mold. While custom guards have a higher up-front cost, they are an incredible investment in your overall health and well-being.

Custom night guards are of higher quality, making them more durable as you grind your teeth at night. They will not only protect you from bruxism, but you won’t have to worry about purchasing constant replacements. They are made to fit your exact oral anatomy, which makes them more effective and safe when used over a long time. Do you want to invest in a custom night guard in Colorado Springs? BRIGHT has you covered. Our team specializes in creating effective night guards that protect your teeth and ensure you wake up feeling fantastic!

Benefits of Wearing a Night Guard

We’ve discussed how night guards can protect our bodies from the effects of bruxism, but what does that mean, exactly? Here are some of the primary benefits you can look forward to. Night guards can:

While store-bought guards are relatively cheaper and do not require a dental visit, they are not durable and do not provide a perfect fit. In fact, since many store-bought guards have excess room between the teeth and the guard, they can cause unnecessary damage when utilized over a long time. Store-bought night guards are an excellent choice if you forget to bring a custom night guard on a trip or need a quick, short-term solution. However, we always recommend investing in a custom guard for long-term, efficient protection.

1. Reduce unnecessary tooth damage
You may accidentally flatten the natural groves in your molars as you grind your teeth at night, which can cause long-term damage. Since night guards act as a layer of protection, they can save your teeth from unnecessary wear and tear.

2. Prevent TMJ
TMJ, or temporomandibular joint dysfunction, can cause jaw pain and discomfort while chewing. Many people who suffer from bruxism also experience TMJ throughout the day because grinding your teeth can cause excessive friction. Since night guards are smooth, your teeth will easily glide past one another to alleviate jaw pain and other TMJ symptoms.

3. Reduce snoring
Since night guards prevent jaw clenching, they will encourage you to open your mouth wider at night. This adjustment will allow you to breathe better, which can decrease snoring and sleep apnea.

4. Improve sleep quality
Bruxism can cause you to wake up throughout the night as you periodically notice nagging pain. Since night guards alleviate discomfort and teeth grinding, they will concurrently improve your sleeping habits.

5. Save You Money in the Long Run
Custom night guards will save you time and money in the long run. Bruxism can cause tooth chipping and long-term jaw complications, and since night guards prevent damage, you can avoid unwanted dental appointments.

How to Clean My Night Guard

Are you ready to invest in a custom night guard? Make sure you clean it properly! Rinse it with warm water every morning after you wake up. Then, brush it with a toothbrush without any toothpaste. Since toothpaste is abrasive, it may damage the guard. Then, store it in a safe space to air dry. Many people leave their night guard in the bathroom, but please avoid doing so if your bathroom becomes steamy or humid, as this can warp the guard.

We also recommend deep cleaning your night guard once a week. Store-bought denture cleaner is an excellent way to remove unwanted bacteria. Add the tablet to a glass of water, put your retainer in the dissolved mixture, and allow it to soak for thirty minutes. Then, rinse your retainer and dry it as normal.

It’s time to say goodbye to the painful effects of bruxism, and BRIGHT Dentistry in Colorado Springs is here to assist you! We create the best night guards, and our team can’t wait to relieve your unwanted nighttime pain. And, if you already experienced some tooth damage due to bruxism, we are ready to restore your smile. We offer comprehensive general and cosmetic dental services to refresh your look. Please book an appointment to get started. Our team cannot wait to BRIGHTen your day!