Are you waking up with a sore jaw or a throbbing headache? These could be signs of teeth grinding or bruxism, a common problem among adults and children alike. At Carolina Pines Dentistry, led by the esteemed Dr. Shane Wingler, we offer custom-made night guards as a solution. These are dental appliances that fit over your teeth, providing a protective barrier to prevent damage caused by grinding or clenching while you sleep. Our night guards are comfortable, durable, and tailored to your unique dental structure, ensuring a perfect fit and effective protection.
Teeth grinding may seem like a harmless habit, but it can lead to serious dental issues over time, including tooth wear, enamel erosion, and even tooth loss. By getting a night guard from Carolina Pines Dentistry, you can protect your teeth from these potential problems. Night guards also help to reduce jaw pain and headaches associated with bruxism, providing a more comfortable sleep. Plus, our night guards are custom-made for your comfort and effectiveness, unlike one-size-fits-all options available in stores.
Teeth grinding can exert up to 250 pounds of pressure on your teeth!
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Night guards serve as a protective layer for your teeth, preventing the wear and tear caused by grinding. This helps to maintain the integrity of your teeth, keeping them strong and healthy. Without this protection, constant grinding can wear down your teeth, leading to sensitivity, cracks, and even tooth loss.
Many people with bruxism experience jaw pain, headaches, and facial discomfort. A night guard helps alleviate these symptoms by providing a cushion between your upper and lower teeth, reducing the strain on your jaw muscles and joints. This can lead to a significant improvement in your comfort and quality of sleep.
By preventing tooth wear, a night guard can also help to avoid more serious dental problems down the line, such as TMJ disorders and sleep apnea. This can save you from future discomfort and potentially costly dental treatments.
The first step towards getting a night guard is a thorough examination by Dr. Wingler. He will assess the extent of your teeth grinding and determine whether a night guard is the right solution for you. This will also be a time to address any questions or concerns you may have.
Once it's decided that a night guard is the best course of action, we'll take dental impressions. These are used to create a mold of your teeth, which will then be used to custom-make your night guard. This ensures a comfortable fit and effective protection.
After your night guard has been made, you'll return to our office for a fitting. Dr. Wingler will ensure the night guard fits perfectly, making any necessary adjustments for optimal comfort and protection. It's important that your night guard fits correctly to prevent any discomfort and to provide the best protection against teeth grinding.
To keep your night guard in good condition, rinse it with cool water immediately after each use. You can also brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild, non-abrasive soap. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic. It’s recommended to soak it in a denture cleaner or a specialized night guard cleaner once a week for a deeper clean. Always store it in its case when not in use to protect it from dust and bacteria. Regular cleaning helps prevent bacteria buildup and ensures your night guard lasts longer.