Why are night guards worn?

Night guards are usually worn to prevent teeth grinding that can wear down tooth surfaces, increasing the risk for decay, gum disease and even tooth loss, Grinding, or bruxism, can also cause temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), a condition that can cause chronic jaw pain and headaches as well as a “clicking” noise when you chew or yawn.

What causes teeth grinding?

Teeth grinding can occur for many reasons, including chronic stress and an unbalanced bite that develops as a result of missing teeth or teeth that are damaged or crooked. Sometimes, correcting damaged teeth, replacing missing teeth or undergoing orthodontic treatment can help resolve chronic teeth grinding. In other cases, stress management may help. Once grinding has become a habit, it can be difficult to stop. Having a night guard in place prevent the damage that can occur as a result of grinding and clenching which tend to occur more commonly during sleep.

What’s involved in getting a night guard or sports guard?

At 209 NYC Dental, we provide patients with custom sports guards and night guards that are designed to fit their mouths comfortably and securely. The process begins with impressions of the upper and lower teeth. The impressions are sent to a state-of-the-art dental lab where state-of-the-art materials are used to precisely fabricate the guards so they achieve a precise and comfortable fit for your mouth.

Are the guards from dentist office the same as the ones I can buy in the drugstore?

No, over-the-counter guards are made as a one-size-fits-all solution rather than a custom-fit product made specifically for your mouth shape, which means they’re less effective and less comfortable. Even the guards that claim to be able to mold to your teeth using hot water or other methods aren’t able to achieve a truly custom fit, plus they can change shape over time.