Night Guards
Do you wake up with a stiff, tired jaw? Are your teeth sensitive to cold drinks? If you answered yes to either of these questions, you may be grinding or clenching your teeth during sleep.
Individuals who grind or clench their teeth during sleep may wake up from sleep with a stiff jaw or have sensitivity to cold drinks. Grinding of the teeth is a medical condition called bruxism. Over time, the bruxism will result in the wearing down of your natural tooth enamel. In fact, studies suggest that those who grind and clench their teeth experience up to 80 times the normal wear per day, compared to those who do not.
Dr. Magoulas recommends the use of a night guard to reduce the risk of wear and tear on your existing healthy teeth. The night guard is a clear, thin, removable device that is custom made to fit over your upper teeth and worn while you sleep.
In addition to relieving head, neck, jaw joint and shoulder pain, it will protect your existing teeth and your dental restorations. It is highly recommended for those who have crowns, bridges, implants and dentures, since it can offset the effects of this often-subconscious habit that occurs during sleep.
