Occlusal Night Guards in Melbourne, FL
Sleep Soundly, Protect Your Smile
Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or tooth sensitivity? You may be grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep. This condition, known as bruxism, can cause serious damage to your teeth and jaw over time. Fortunately, occlusal night guards offer an effective solution to protect your smile and relieve discomfort. At Artistic Touch Dentistry, we provide custom-fitted occlusal night guards designed to prevent the harmful effects of nighttime teeth grinding and clenching.
What Are Occlusal Night Guards?
Occlusal night guards are custom-made dental appliances worn during sleep to cushion your teeth and prevent them from grinding together. Unlike over-the-counter options that offer a generic fit, professional night guards are created from impressions of your teeth, ensuring optimal comfort and protection. They work by creating a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing the force of grinding and reducing strain on your jaw muscles and joints.
Signs You May Need an Occlusal Night Guard
Many people who grind their teeth at night are unaware they’re doing it. Your dentist in Melbourne can identify signs of bruxism during routine exams, but you may also notice symptoms such as:
- Waking up with jaw pain or stiffness
- Frequent headaches, especially in the morning
- Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Pain or clicking in the jaw joint (TMJ)
- Your partner mentioning grinding sounds during sleep
If you experience any of these symptoms, scheduling an evaluation for occlusal night guards could help protect your teeth and improve your quality of sleep.
How Occlusal Night Guards Protect Your Smile
Grinding and clenching exert significant pressure on your teeth, sometimes equivalent to hundreds of pounds of force. Over time, this can lead to:
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Worn enamel that increases cavity risk
- Damage to existing dental work like crowns or fillings
- Gum recession
- Chronic jaw pain and TMJ disorders
Occlusal night guards prevent these problems by distributing bite forces evenly and keeping your teeth separated. This protection can save you from costly dental repairs down the road and help you maintain a healthy, functional smile.
Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Night Guards
While drugstore night guards may seem convenient, they rarely provide the same level of protection or comfort as custom options. Generic guards often fit poorly, causing discomfort that can disrupt sleep. They may also be too thick or too thin, failing to adequately protect your teeth or jaw. Custom occlusal night guards from your dentist in Melbourne are:
- Made from high-quality materials designed for durability
- Precisely fitted to your unique bite
- More comfortable for extended wear
- Better at protecting both teeth and jaw joints
- Easier to keep clean and maintain
Investing in a professional night guard means better protection, improved comfort, and longer-lasting results.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Getting fitted for occlusal night guards is a simple process. During your appointment, we will:
- Examine your teeth and jaw for signs of grinding or clenching
- Take precise impressions of your teeth
- Send the impressions to a dental lab where your custom guard is created
- Schedule a follow-up visit to ensure proper fit and comfort
Once your night guard is ready, we will show you how to insert, remove, and care for it properly. Most patients adjust to wearing their night guard within a few nights.
Caring for Your Occlusal Night Guard
Proper care extends the life of your night guard and keeps it clean and effective. Follow these simple tips:
- Rinse your night guard with cool water after each use
- Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap
- Store it in its protective case when not in use
- Avoid exposing it to heat, which can warp the material
- Bring it to your dental appointments for professional cleaning
With good care, occlusal night guards can last several years before needing replacement.
FAQ About Occlusal Night Guards
Q: Will wearing a night guard be uncomfortable?
A: Custom night guards are designed to fit comfortably. Most patients adjust within a few nights.
Q: Can I wear my night guard during the day?
A: If you clench your teeth during the day, your dentist may recommend daytime wear as well.
Q: How long do occlusal night guards last?
A: With proper care, a custom night guard typically lasts 3 to 5 years, though this varies based on the severity of grinding.
Q: Are night guards covered by insurance?
A: Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for night guards. We can help you verify your benefits.
Protect Your Smile with Custom Night Guards
If grinding or clenching is affecting your sleep, comfort, or dental health, occlusal night guards can make a significant difference. At Artistic Touch Dentistry, we provide custom solutions designed to protect your teeth and relieve jaw strain. Don’t wait until damage occurs. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how a professionally fitted night guard can help you wake up pain-free and protect your smile for years to come.