Should You Be Using A Night Guard
If your dentist has recommended that you incorporate a nightguard into your routine or if you’ve been wondering whether or not it would be a good fit for you, it may be time to invest in one. Before you can make that decision, however, it’s important to understand what exactly a night guard is and why you may need one.
What is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a retainer-like plastic piece that covers the biting surfaces. Since every individual’s teeth patterns are unique, night guards are custom-made to fit every set perfectly. Night guards have more than one purpose, many of which can save you pain, and money and even improve your overall health. Below we’ve listed a few reasons why you may need to consider using a night guard.
Save Your Teeth
Many people need a night guard because they clench or grind their teeth in their sleep. This grinding can not only wear down your teeth, but it can eventually crack or break them. Cracked teeth can sometimes be fixed with a simple restoration, but other times more drastic measures need to be taken to save your teeth. A night guard can prevent any of this damage.
Prevent Snoring
If your significant other has complained about your snoring, a night guard can help. The night guard works by adjusting the position of your teeth and jaw, allowing air to pass through more easily, resulting in less snoring.
Relieve Jaw Pain
Clenching or grinding your teeth can cause a great amount of pain and issues within your jaw after extended periods of time. Your jaw is often overworked when you’re sleeping, putting a lot of pressure down on your teeth. Jaw pain can cause difficulty chewing and even talking, which can all be avoided through the use of a night guard.
Save Money
When you consider all the consequences of not wearing a night guard when you need one, it can start to add up quickly. You may find yourself having to pay for larger procedures such as root canals and crowns to repair any of the damage.
Putting off getting a night guard can put you at risk of dental and medical health issues that can easily be avoided. If you feel like you could benefit from a night guard, schedule an appointment right away with your dentist to see if it’s the right choice for you.
