Dental Night Guard

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Has your dentist ever asked you if you grind or clench your teeth? Bruxism, or grinding of the teeth, is typically an involuntary act that can have very real, negative long term affects. It not only causes destruction healthy teeth, it can also cause muscular pain, headaches, and jaw soreness.   If you are experiencing frequent headaches, joint pain, or facial pain, ask your dentist if this could be related to bruxism. Your dentist will do a thorough exam of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), muscles of mastication and teeth to determine if you may be clenching and grinding. Commonly, excessive wear on teeth can be a tell-tale sign, even if the patient is not experiencing any pain.   Leaving this untreated can lead to wear, broken and cracked teeth, potentially needing root canals, crowns or even extractions.  Your dentist may recommend a night time appliance that helps protect your teeth. A night guard can reduce the detrimental affects that come with bruxism. These appliances are not always covered by insurance, but they can potentially save you hundreds of dollars of treatment by protecting your teeth. Your dentist will take  impressions of your teeth, either traditionally or digitally, and have a lab fabricate a custom appliance just right for you. Over the counter guards are not custom fit and can worsen your issues, and are therefore not recommended.   Ask about our night guards at your next dental visit!