Deep in sleep, some people may not be aware that they’re grinding their teeth or clenching their jaws. The technical term for the condition is called bruxism and is typically associated with stress. For sufferers, an effective solution is wearing a night guard. The dentists at Kimberling City Dental Center in Missouri have helped many of its patients with the useful device to eliminate scenarios that may cause teeth damage.

To understand how a night guard works, start with its description. The dental mold is either soft dual laminate or hard acrylic and is inserted in the mouth to create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth. The device is usually worn at night while the wearer is sleeping.

The way the night guard works is the barrier helps the jaw muscles to properly align to keep the upper and lower teeth from connecting. As the jaws relax, the teeth are cushioned through the night guard, which helps eliminate clenching and grinding. The mold also helps provide relief from headaches and toothaches caused by the night-time tension.

While most night guards are universally sized, a custom alternative can be created by a dentist by making an impression of your teeth. Depending on the severity of the clenching and grinding, the dentist will determine the night guard’s degree of hardness. With diligent night-time wear, the device is designed to eliminate bruxism.

Kimberling City Dental Center specializes in comprehensive dental care, which includes dental hygiene services for the prevention of tooth and gum disease. Night guards are one of several devices provided by the professional and caring team to save teeth from permanent damage.

To learn more about night guards and whether the device can help you, call the dentists at Kimberling City Dental Center at (417) 739-4965 to schedule an appointment. Visit the website for extensive information on other products and services.