Night Guards in North York, ON
What Exactly is a Night Guard?
Night guards are protective dental appliances worn over your teeth, usually while you sleep. They’re like a cushion for your teeth, helping reduce the impact of clenching or grinding, which is a condition called bruxism. Night guards also help minimize jaw pain or other issues caused by stress on your teeth and jaw muscles.
Steeles Weston Family Dental offers customized night guards for all our patients. If you, a loved one, or a friend are looking to visit trustworthy local dental clinic, come visit us today! Our dentists near you are eager to help you take care of your smile, ensuring it looks beautiful and is functional for years.
Why Use a Night Guard?
Here’s why people may require a night guard:
- Prevent Tooth Damage: Grinding or clenching can wear down your teeth over time, causing cracks or sensitivity.
- Ease Jaw Pain: If your jaw feels sore or stiff in the morning, a night guard can help relieve the pressure.
- Improve Sleep: Grinding can disturb your sleep (and your partner’s!). Wearing a guard can help reduce the noise and discomfort.
- Protect Expensive Dental Work: If you’ve got crowns, veneers, or fillings, a night guard helps keep them safe from wear and tear.
Types of Night Guards
Night guards can be fabricated from a variety of materials, such as more flexible or harder plastic, depending on the patient’s needs. You can also acquire customized or over-the-counter (OTC) guards. The best dental appliance will be one that can satisfy your oral health requirements, lifestyle, and budget. We encourage you to book a consultation with one of our dentists in North York, ON, to learn more. They can examine your smile and made a suitable recommendation.
Customized
- Must visit a dentist to acquire this. They will take impressions of your smile to ensure the device fits you tightly and comfortably.
- High-quality dental plastic is used to create the appliance. It is biocompatible, flexible, and will not cause swelling, redness, or irritation.
- Can be costly but lasts for several months.
- Good for patients of all ages.
Over-the-Counter
- Available for purchase at drugstores.
- These dental guards can be boil-and-bite or stock, meaning the fit is less precise.
- Does not cost as much as a customized night guard, but it may only last for several weeks before needing replacement.
So … Do You Need One?
If you wake up with headaches, jaw pain, or notice that your teeth are wearing down, talk to a member of our dental team! They are at your disposal, ready to examine your smile and discuss the options available to you. If you have inquiries or concerns about this treatment, please let us know so we can address them!
Acquire Your Night Guard Today
Night guards are small but mighty when it comes to protecting your smile and helping you sleep better! The staff here at Steeles Weston Family Dental awaits your call. Together, we’ll ensure that your smile is well protected so you can not only get the rest you need to take on every new day, but so you can eat, talk, and laugh comfortably, too.
We hope to speak with you soon!
Is a dental exam required before getting a night guard?
Yes. Our dentist needs to look at your teeth to make sure the guard fits perfectly. If it doesn’t fit right, it won’t protect you and might even feel uncomfortable.
What happens if I stop wearing my night guard?
If you stop, you’ll go back to grinding your teeth at night. This can lead to jaw pain, chipped teeth, or worn-down enamel. Keeping it in every night is the best way to keep your smile safe.
What is the difference between a night guard and a retainer?
A night guard stops teeth from grinding. A retainer keeps teeth straight after braces. They look alike but do different jobs.
How should I clean and store my night guard?
Wash it with cool water after use. Clean gently with mild soap, not toothpaste. Keep it in a clean, dry case.
How is a custom night guard made?
Our dentist takes an impression of your teeth. A lab makes the guard to match your bite exactly. The custom fit gives comfort and strong protection.
How does a night guard protect against teeth grinding?
It creates a soft barrier between your teeth. This physical layer stops them from wearing down or cracking. It also eases jaw pressure while you sleep.