Night Guards at Smiles Are Us Park Holme
Clenching and grinding often happen at night so you may not be aware that this is a problem for you. However, there are signs of symptoms that you or your dentist might notice:
- Cracked teeth
- Worn teeth that look short or flat
- Sensitive teeth
- Teeth that feel bruised when you bite down
- Tired jaw muscles, especially after eating
The Problem – too much Force
When clenching and grinding, the teeth are under a lot more pressure compared to when they are used for normal activities like eating. These strong forces go directly through the teeth, through the roots and into the bone and gums. Over time, these excessive forces can cause significant and sometimes irreparable damage. A nightguard is a simple way to protect your teeth from damage.
Safeguarding your Smile – A custom made nightguard
At Smiles are Us, we provide custom-made night guards which are worn over the top or bottom teeth. It is usually made from hard plastic and transfers the forces from clenching and grinding into the plastic rather than the teeth- that way you are wearing out the nightguard rather than your teeth.
What To Expect
If you are worried that you may be clenching or grinding, book an appointment for a comprehensive examination. We can make a detailed treatment plan for you and ensure that your clenching and grinding isn’t related to other medical conditions (such as Obstructive Sleep Apnoea) which need to be treated first. We can also plan for other treatment that may need to be completed before making a nightguard. Once this is done, a scan will be taken and you can return a couple weeks for a brief 10-minute appointment to pick up the nightguard and make sure it fits well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it uncomfortable to sleep in?
Does health insurance cover this service?
Book an Appointment
Safeguard your smile with a custom night guard. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!