Night guards are used to protect a person’s teeth and oral structures from possible damage caused by bruxism. This is a condition that causes a person to unknowingly clench and grind their teeth while they are asleep. When the problem occurs, a person can experience major dental issues and problems that could require further treatment.

There are many causes of bruxism, including:

• Various sleep disorders
• Young age
• Substance abuse
• Certain medications
• Stress and anxiety
• Certain medical problems

When bruxism occurs, the problem should be taken very seriously. Anyone suffering from the condition should take precautions so that no major damage occurs. Some of the problems that can result from bruxism include:

• Excessive tooth wear
• Jaw discomfort
• Headaches and migraines
• Tooth fractures
• Cracked or broken teeth
• Nerve damage
• Recessed gum lines

A protective night guard can be very effective in preventing damage caused by bruxism. A night guard is worn over the teeth while sleeping so that the teeth are protected. The night guards we offer are custom-made to provide the best protection. Most patients find that they are very comfortable and that they do not cause any disruptions to their sleep cycle. In fact, many patients report that they experience a better night of sleep since any oral pain or discomfort will be significantly reduced.

A protective night guard can go a long way towards protecting your teeth from damage. A visit to Hilltop Dental Studio will allow us to determine if you can benefit from using a night guard. You may call us at (540) 898-8181 to schedule an appointment.