Tooth pain, headache, and a sore jaw — if this sounds like your typical morning, you may be suffering from bruxism. Commonly known as teeth grinding or clenching, bruxism affects 30 to 40 million adults and children — most of whom are unaware they have it. The condition is also known to cause a variety of oral health issues, including tooth damage, broken dental fillings, and tooth sensitivity. To combat the affliction, Naugatuck, CT, dentist Brian Perelmuter, DMD, P.C. recommends sleeping with a night guard.

What Is a Night Guard?

A night guard is a protective oral health appliance worn while you sleep to combat the effects of clenching and grinding. They can typically be purchased at your local pharmacy and do not require a prescription. To use the device, simply boil, allow a few seconds to cool, and gently bite to mold the guard to your teeth.

For added protection, you may consider purchasing a night guard through your oral health practitioner. Created in a laboratory from a custom mold, these night guards tend to be of a superior fit and higher quality. While you may end up paying more, the added comfort and durability of a custom guard can easily justify the expense.

What Are the Benefits?

Though a night guard will not prevent you from grinding or clenching, it will serve as a barrier between the top and bottom teeth when you do. This places pressure on the guard, rather than your teeth, helping ensure a restful — and quiet — night’s sleep.

If bruxism is allowed to persist, your teeth will flatten. Over time, the loss of tooth enamel can lead to temperature sensitivity, pain, receding gums, cracks, and tooth loss. As a result, you may be forced to pay for costly restorative procedures, such as root canals, extractions, dental implants, veneers, bridges, and crowns — all because you refused to wear a night guard.

Offering a full range of general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services, Brian Perelmuter, DMD, P.C. has you covered for the comprehensive, professional dental care you deserve. Visit the practice online or call (203) 729-3323 to learn more about his dental care services.