If you grind your teeth at night, the dentist may recommend using a night guard. These create a barrier between the top and bottom jaw, and they improve your sleep and the health of the teeth. However, they offer many benefits, a few of which are below. 

5 Reasons to Wear a Night Guard

1. Limit Grinding Damage 

Bruxism, or grinding of the teeth, happens when people are asleep and not in control of their actions. People often complain to a dentist about jaw pain or dull headaches, and learn that they have this condition. Wearing a night guard prevents the teeth from grinding against one another, as the plastic barrier sits between the jaws.

2. Prevent Jaw Tension

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ) is a condition that stresses the muscles in the jaw. This happens when you clench the muscles repeatedly, leading to pain and headaches during the day. However, you cannot tense these muscles as easily when wearing a night guard, relieving the pain the next morning.

3. Promote Healthy Sleep

Night guards prevent TMJ and jaw pain, making your sleep more restful. Getting a custom option will provide the best protection, and may help you sleep better by minimizing stress. Additionally, custom models work better than over-the-counter versions because you are less likely to lose them in your sleep. They will also fit your mouth perfectly, without causing irritation.

4. Save Money

Teeth grinding can ruin your enamel as you wear away at the surface of the teeth during the night. Bruxism can encourage cavities and make your teeth more sensitive to temperatures by limiting the protective layers that safeguard your nerves. You may need to visit the dentist more to address these issues if they become severe.

5. Reduce Snoring

Night guards create space between the teeth, improving nighttime breathing, and lowering the chances of snoring. Limiting snoring can help you breathe better and reduce the likelihood of waking yourself or a partner up with the noise. This provides a quieter environment for everyone in the home and improves their quality of sleep.

If you’re curious about night guards, contact Kimberling City Dental Center in the Tri-Lakes area of Missouri. The full-service dentist offers hygiene check-ups, veneers, bridges, and more. Call (417) 739-4965 to schedule an appointment. Visit the website for information on all of their services, including prosthetics, crowns, and teeth whitening.