Protect teeth, ease headaches (and much more!) with custom night guards in Seminole, FL
Tooth enamel is strong. In fact, it’s stronger than skeletal bone! However, imagine placing 250 pounds of force on your teeth, day in and day out. Even the healthiest, strongest teeth could not withstand that consistent level of pressure on them over the long term. If you clench or grind your teeth during sleep, you are putting excessive forces on them that they are not designed to handle. Sleep bruxism, as it’s called, can threaten your natural teeth and costly dental work. Fortunately, Boulevard Dental in Seminole, FL customizes night guards that effectively protect your teeth and restorations, and provide additional, quality of life-enhancing benefits.
The trouble with bruxism
Bruxers who clench their teeth and grind their jaws during sleep often times do not realize they have this condition until after a visit with one of our dentists, Drs Wujick, Clark, or Castillo. During their regular check-up, they may find telltale signs of bruxism, such as chipped teeth, fractures, and prematurely-damaged crowns and other restorations. Since bruxism frequently occurs during sleep, patients are not aware that they are clenching or grinding their teeth. There is also a lack of awareness or control associated with bite strength. So, sleep bruxers may grind their teeth with greater force than bruxers who grind and clench during the day. Daytime bruxers tend to engage in these behaviors when concentrating deeply, or as the result of stress, anger, anxiety, or other strong emotions.
An effective, no-stress answer
Our team is trained to design lightweight yet durable oral appliances that are made to fit your mouth. These appliances, or night guards, slip over your teeth. When worn during sleep, night guards protect your teeth and restorations from damage. Our patients have also experienced many other benefits from their custom night guards, which seem to have nothing to do with the teeth. These additional benefits include:
- Fewer, less severe headaches
- Relief from neck, back, and shoulder pain
- Improvements in the frequency and severity of tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
These additional, quality of life enhancements are rooted in the positive effect night guards have on the jaw joints. The above conditions represent just a few of the symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder. Night guards help to promote a healthy jaw position and bite, and also help to cushion the blow on the joint that is generated by severe grinding and clenching actions.
Night Guard FAQs
Many people are unaware that they grind or clench their teeth during sleep because the activity occurs unconsciously. Common warning indications may include waking with jaw fatigue, tooth sensitivity, facial soreness, or unexplained wear on the teeth. Some patients learn about the condition from a sleeping partner who hears grinding sounds during the night. A dental examination can often reveal evidence of bruxism before significant damage develops.
Yes. Custom night guards are fabricated specifically for your unique bite and tooth arrangement. Over-the-counter appliances are manufactured in generalized sizes and may not provide the same level of fit, comfort, or protection. Since a custom appliance is designed around your mouth, it can often be worn more comfortably and may provide a more predictable result than a generic alternative purchased at a retail store.
Many patients invest in crowns, veneers, bonding, and other restorations to improve the appearance and function of their smiles. Excessive grinding and clenching may place additional stress on these restorations. A custom night guard can serve as a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, helping to reduce wear and minimize the risk of damage to both natural teeth and dental work.
The duration a night guard lasts depends on aspects such as the intensity of teeth grinding, the materials utilized, and the level of care given to the device. Some patients place significant pressure on their appliances each night, while others experience less wear. During routine dental visits, your dentist can inspect the appliance for signs of deterioration and recommend adjustments or replacement if necessary.
Keeping a night guard clean is important for both oral health and appliance longevity. Patients are generally advised to rinse the appliance after use and clean it according to their dentist’s instructions. Proper storage is also important when the appliance is not being worn. Your dental team can provide detailed recommendations to help keep your night guard clean, comfortable, and functioning properly.
Stress and emotional tension are often associated with clenching and grinding behaviors in some individuals. While a night guard protects the teeth from damage, addressing underlying stressors may also be beneficial. Techniques such as exercise, relaxation practices, improved sleep habits, and stress-management strategies may help some patients reduce contributing factors. Your dentist can discuss whether additional approaches may complement treatment.
Most patients adapt to their custom appliance relatively quickly. It is normal to notice the presence of the guard during the first few nights as your mouth becomes accustomed to it. Because custom appliances are designed specifically for your bite, they are generally more comfortable than one-size-fits-all alternatives. Consistent use often helps the adjustment process occur more smoothly.
If you suspect you may be grinding or clenching your teeth, the team at Boulevard Dental can help determine whether a custom night guard is appropriate for your needs. Our team provides personalized evaluations and treatment recommendations designed to protect your smile and support long-term oral health. Contact our Seminole office today to schedule an appointment.
If you have chronic migraines, the source of your pain may be in your mouth, and relief may be available at your dentist’s office in Seminole, FL.
