A night guard is a dental appliance worn during sleep to protect teeth from grinding or clenching, a condition known as bruxism. Bruxism can cause excessive wear and damage to the teeth, leading to problems such as fractures, chips, and even loosening of teeth over time. Night guards act as a cushion between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing the forces generated by grinding or clenching and preventing direct tooth-to-tooth contact. By wearing a night guard, individuals can mitigate the harmful effects of bruxism and preserve the integrity of their teeth.
The benefits of night guards extend beyond tooth protection. They can also alleviate associated symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and muscle tension. Additionally, night guards promote better sleep quality by reducing disruptions caused by teeth grinding noises and discomfort. Dr. Carlson offers custom-fit night guards tailored to each patient's unique mouth structure, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness. Dr. Carlson and our team would love to review if you're a good candidate for a night guard and if he believes you'd benefit from one.
