Hello, my name is Hannah, and I'm a dental assistant here at South Fork Dentistry. I'll be going over commonly asked questions about night guards.
What are the most common reasons someone might need a night guard?
The main reasons are teeth grinding, jaw clenching, TMJ, or even headaches and facial tension.
What is a night guard and how does it help protect teeth?
A night guard is a custom-made appliance that you wear while you sleep to help protect your teeth from clenching and grinding.
How does a night guard help with teeth grinding?
Teeth grinding is reduced by redirecting the pressure from your teeth and joints onto the night guard.
What are the benefits of using a night guard for TMJ?
TMJ often results from misalignment or stress on jaw joints. A night guard helps position the jaw more comfortably and reduces muscle strain.
What are the differences between over-the-counter and custom night guards?
An over-the-counter night guard is one size fits most. A custom night guard is made from the mold of your mouth, making it more effective, durable, and comfortable to wear at night.
Are night guards expensive?
Night guards are an investment, but they are much less costly than treating a cracked tooth or jaw pain later.
How long do night guards last?
Night guards typically last up to 3 to 5 years.