Categories: Night Guards

When do General Dentists Recommend Night Guard Treatment?

Looking for more information on night guard treatment? Bruxism is a term used for people who grind and/or clench their teeth, which can be done during the day and/or during the night. Those who grind at night often experience damaged teeth, which can be addressed by using a night guard. Ready to learn more?

General dentists treat clenching, grinding

Individuals that experience tooth-related problems that are negatively affecting the overall health of the mouth require the help of a general dentist. In the case of bruxism or jaw clenching, a night guard may be the appropriate solution. 

The best way to know whether or not night guard treatment is needed is to be evaluated by a general dentist. General dentists have undergone the extensive training that allows them to treat people who grind and/or clench their teeth, with night guard treatment being one of the more common treatments utilized.

Protecting teeth from damage

The information below explains when general dentists will recommend night guard treatment. When suffering from jaw clenching or teeth grinding, it can be helpful to thoroughly review the following information. 

When teeth start to flatten, fracture, chip or become loose

When someone grinds and/or clenches their teeth during the night, their teeth are not protected from any possible damage due to participating in this act. This is because many people are not aware of what they are doing when they are sleeping. They often do not realize they are causing damage to their teeth until they start to actually see the damage. Some of the more common types of damage include flattened teeth, fractured teeth, chipped teeth and loose teeth, which can all be prevented by wearing a night guard.

When patients start experiencing increased tooth sensitivity

The constant act of grinding and/or clenching one’s teeth will eventually begin to wear down the enamel of their teeth. Once someone starts to experience a loss of tooth enamel, they will also start experiencing an increase in the overall sensitivity of their teeth. This means when eating hot, cold or sweet foods, some level of sensitivity will be experienced. This sensitivity can be minimal or it can be extreme, which can result in difficulty eating or drinking. 

Additionally, weakened enamel can result in less strength and durability. Over time, the teeth can break down and become susceptible to decay, cracking or chipping. 

Side effects

Individuals that grind their teeth or clench their jaw may also suffer from other symptoms, such as headaches, soreness in the jaw and difficulty sleeping through the night. When these symptoms start to become regular, a general dentist may take note of them and recommend a night guard. 

Conclusion

Those that suffer from jaw clenching or teeth grinding should visit a dentist quickly to determine the appropriate course of treatment, which may begin with a night guard. To find out more or to get started with an appointment, reach out today. 

Are you considering night guard treatment in the Flower Mound area? Get more information at https://drcaffeyearle.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Night Guards in Flower Mound, TX.

Recent Posts

How Preventive Dentistry Can Keep Cavities From Forming

The goal of preventive dentistry is to keep teeth and gums clean and healthy in order to reduce the risk of cavities and other oral health concerns developing. It is a good idea to have a full understanding of how preventive dentistry can protect your smile and what services a dentist may recommend for cavity…

Why People With Chronic Conditions Need Preventive Dental Care

Preventative dental care is important for all patients, but those who live with a chronic health condition should consider regular dental visits even more often. Although many have heard this before, it is helpful to understand exactly why this is the case and what might take place during a visit for preventive dental care.Oral health…

What Procedures Are Done At A Dental Checkup?

A dental checkup involves checking your gums and teeth to look for potential issues. Knowing what procedures to expect can help make the process easier for you. You might want to get an exam every six months. But if you have specific issues, you might need a more detailed exam. Keep reading to learn what…

Will Dental Offices Still Be Open During The Coronavirus (COVID -19) Transmission Prevention Efforts?

As the president of the California Dental Association put it, the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is “undoubtedly the single largest crisis we will face in our lifetimes.” As a major public health threat, COVID-19 has forced society to put life on pause and relearn what it means to make do with just the essentials. Unfortunately, due…

Smiles By Design

Share
Published by
Smiles By Design

Recent Posts

A General Dentist Answers Bruxism FAQs

General dentists state that bruxism is a condition that involves the grinding of the top…

4 weeks ago

Dental Restoration: Learn About Fillings

Smiles By Design -- Find out how a filling works as a dental restoration. This…

2 months ago

Are Composite Dental Fillings Permanent?

Composite resin fillings have emerged as a popular alternative due to better compatibility with the…

3 months ago

Invisalign to Correct an Improper Bite

You may have heard of Invisalign® before. It is a popular, alternate way to correct…

4 months ago

Gum Disease: How to Reverse It and Get Healthy Gums Again

It is bad enough having swollen gums and bleeding, but more serious issues can result…

5 months ago

When Might a General Dentist Recommend Dental Bonding?

Dentists frequently use dental bonding to treat oral health and cosmetic challenges. To repair chips…

6 months ago