Nightguard Our dentists at Cleary Dental recommend wearing a mouthguard if you suffer from grinding or clenching your teeth at night. Mouthguards are removable coverings that you may need to wear over your teeth to protect them while you sleep if you have a sleep condition. Sleep ConditionsBruxism is a disorder that causes you to grind and clench your teeth during your sleep. This condition can cause problems such as jaw pain, tooth pain, and sore gums. If grinding persists without a mouthguard, it will wear down your teeth. Tooth enamel cannot be rebuilt so it is important to preserve it. If you grind or clench your teeth while you sleep you should wear a mouthguard at night to protect your enamel from wearing down. You may have these problems if you suffer from bruxism or anxiety. Sleep apnea is another disorder that may cause you to decide to wear a mouthguard at night. Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes you to temporarily stop breathing while you sleep. This means that your brain will not receive enough oxygen and increases your risk of heart disease or stroke. Using a CPAP assists you with sleep apnea by opening up your airways while you sleep. Mouthguards can provide a similar effect if you wear one while you sleep. If you stop breathing during your sleep, you should wear a mouthguard at night to keep your mouth and airways open. Mouthguards Can Help You SleepThere are three types of mouthguards: custom, stock, and boil and bite. Stock mouthguards and boil and bite mouthguards are available for you to purchase at a drug store and come ready to wear. However, we do not recommend using these mouthguards especially if you are using it as a nightguard because they are ill-fitting. If you are using a mouthguard to help with your sleep apnea stock and boil and bite mouthguards will not help, you will need a mouthguard with a strap that will be able to adjust your jaw. Your mouthguard should push your lower jaw and tongue forward so that your airway can be kept open while you sleep. An effective mouthguard will be custom fitted by a dentist. The best mouthguard for you and one that fits your condition will be custom-made by our dentist out of acrylic or plastic material. Contact Us Today!Before and after using your mouthguard, you need to rinse it with cold water while washing it with soap and a toothbrush. When you are not wearing your mouthguard, store it in a hard perforated container. This kind of case will keep bacteria from growing on your mouthguard by permitting air circulation. High temperatures may cause your mouthguard to warp, so keep it away from warm temperatures, hot water, and hot surfaces. When your mouthguard becomes loose, you need to replace it so that it can continue to work for you. If you need to wear a mouthguard at night to help you sleep, let our experienced dentists at Cleary Dental be your trusted dental provider. Call us today and consult with one of our dental professionals by dialing (856) 528-8607. |
