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Exploring Nightguards In Greeley, CO
Nightguards, also referred to as dental guards or mouth guards, are devices used to prevent the potential consequences of teeth grinding. Typically made from a strong transparent material called acrylic resin, these oral appliances can be either soft or hard. To prevent contact between the upper front teeth and lower front teeth during sleep, your dentist will advise you to wear the nightguard over the upper front row of teeth. In instances of intense teeth grinding, a dental guard for the lower teeth may be recommended. Apart from offering protection, mouthguards also provide cushioning for the jaw muscles.
Benefits of Using Night Guards for Bruxism
Bruxism, the habit of grinding teeth, can occur during the day or while sleeping. It is often a result of anger, stress, or anxiety, and is typically done unconsciously. However, this habit can be detrimental to oral health. To protect your teeth, dentists may recommend using a nightguard in conjunction with anxiety treatments like medication or therapy.
While night guards do not eliminate teeth grinding, they can help prevent damage to fillings, tooth chipping or loosening, and excessive wear of tooth enamel. Additionally, using a nightguard may improve sleep quality and alleviate symptoms associated with bruxism.
- Tooth sensitivity or discomfort
- Biting the cheeks
- Gums that are pulling back
- Tiredness caused by interrupted sleep throughout the night.
- Experiencing discomfort in the face due to tight or sore jaw muscles.
- Temple-related headaches
Using nightguards for TMJ offers several benefits.
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) in your mouth are responsible for the opening and closing of your mouth. Grinding your teeth can lead to issues with these joints, resulting in TMJ and symptoms like jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, or a locked jaw. Inflammation or jaw injuries can also cause TMJ. Nightguards for TMJ can help align your jaws properly and relieve muscle tension while you sleep. Using a nightguard may effectively alleviate other TMJ symptoms, including:
- Facial pain or discomfort
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Intense discomfort similar to an earache
- Sensation of hearing a ringing sound in the ear
- Challenges with chewing or speaking
- Discomfort while eating or talking
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