What is a Nightguard?

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If you grind your teeth at night, a nightguard might be the solution. A night guard is a dental implement often made of plastic, designed to fit over your teeth. It helps to improve the position of your mouth as you sleep and takes the pressure off your teeth, to protect your enamel and prevent pain. 

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Reasons to Wear a Nightguard

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If you grind your teeth at night (a condition called bruxism), a nightguard will make a huge difference in the long-term health of your teeth. These are the main benefits of wearing a nightguard for teeth: 

 

• Protect teeth from wearing away and becoming more prone to  

• Prevent jaw pain and headaches 

• Prevent serious long-term damage like chipping, decay, and even tooth loss 

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Types of Nightguards

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There are a few types of nightguards you may want to consider.

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Custom-Made

Custom nightguards are made based on an imprint of your teeth. They’re created under the guidance of a dentist, to fit your teeth perfectly. They’re more comfortable, and they’re designed specifically for the level of pressure you apply when you grind your teeth.  

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Hard Nightguards

Hard nightguards are available over the counter. They’re usually one-size-fits-all or may have small customization options. They’re rarely as comfortable or as well-fitted as custom guards, so you may find yourself having to buy a few models.  

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Over-the-Counter

OTC nightguards are usually a “boil and bite” option. You boil them and then bite into them to create an impression of your teeth. They’re often a better choice than one-size-fits-all hard nightguards, although they’re rarely as durable or comfortable as nightguards made by a dental lab. 

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Dental Nightguard at Sparr Heights Smiles

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At Sparr Heights Smiles, we create custom-tailored nightguards from a comfortable material that perfectly fits your teeth. Our nightguards are more comfortable, effective, and durable than hard nightguards or over-the-counter options. 

 

Contact us today to find out if a dental night guard is right for you. We can also help you understand the cause of your bruxism, to address teeth grinding from the root.