Stop Grinding, Start Protecting: Your Guide to Night Guards
If you’ve been waking up with jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth, you might be dealing with bruxism, a condition where you grind or clench your teeth during sleep. Many people don’t even realize they have bruxism until a dentist or orthodontist points out the telltale signs. If you’re currently undergoing orthodontic treatment or have recently completed it, you may wonder whether your McAllen orthodontist would recommend a night guard to protect your teeth and your investment in your smile. The short answer is: absolutely, and here’s why.
Understanding Bruxism and Its Impact
Bruxism is more common than you might think. It affects both children and adults and can occur during the day or, more frequently, at night. Nighttime grinding and clenching place significant stress on your teeth, jaw muscles, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Over time, this habit can lead to serious dental issues, including enamel erosion, cracked or chipped teeth, gum recession, and even tooth loss in severe cases.
For patients who have invested time and effort into straightening their teeth with braces or clear aligners, bruxism poses an additional risk. The forces generated during grinding can shift teeth out of alignment, potentially undoing the results of orthodontic treatment. This is why many orthodontists, including our team at Freels Orthodontics, take bruxism seriously and may recommend a night guard as part of your long-term care plan.
What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a custom-fitted oral appliance worn over your teeth while you sleep. It creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, absorbing the force of grinding and preventing direct tooth-to-tooth contact. Night guards are typically made from durable, high-quality materials designed to withstand the pressure of clenching without wearing down quickly.
While over-the-counter night guards are available at pharmacies, a custom night guard from your McAllen orthodontist offers superior fit, comfort, and protection. Custom guards are made from impressions of your teeth, ensuring they stay securely in place throughout the night and provide maximum effectiveness.
Why Dr. Freels May Recommend a Night Guard
There are several situations where a McAllen orthodontist would recommend a night guard, especially for patients with a history of bruxism or those currently in orthodontic treatment.
- Protecting Orthodontic Results: After completing treatment with braces or Invisalign, the last thing you want is for your teeth to shift out of place. Bruxism can apply enough pressure to move teeth, particularly if you’re not wearing your retainer consistently or if your retainer isn’t designed to handle grinding forces. A night guard can work alongside your retainer to protect your newly aligned smile.
- Preventing Damage During Active Treatment: If you grind your teeth and are currently wearing braces, a night guard can help protect your brackets, wires, and teeth from excessive wear. Grinding with braces can cause breakage or slow down treatment progress, so your orthodontist may suggest a night guard to keep everything on track.
- Reducing Jaw Pain and TMJ Issues: Bruxism doesn’t just damage teeth. It also strains the muscles and joints involved in chewing. Many patients with bruxism experience TMJ disorder symptoms, including jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, and difficulty opening the mouth fully. A night guard helps by cushioning the jaw and reducing the intensity of clenching, which can alleviate discomfort and prevent further joint damage.
- Preserving Dental Work: If you have crowns, veneers, or other restorative work, bruxism can cause significant damage to these investments. A night guard provides an extra layer of protection, extending the life of your dental work and saving you money on future repairs.
Ask Us About Night Guards
If you suspect you have bruxism or have been told by a dentist that you grind your teeth, bring it up during your next visit to Freels Orthodontics. Dr. Freels will evaluate your teeth, discuss your symptoms, and determine whether a night guard is the right solution for you. If so, we’ll take an impression of your teeth to create a custom-fitted guard that’s comfortable, durable, and effective.
Wearing a night guard may take a few nights to get used to, but most patients quickly adapt and notice a significant improvement in their symptoms. With proper care, your night guard can last for years, providing ongoing protection for your teeth and jaw.
Protect Your Smile for the Long Term
Bruxism is a serious condition that shouldn’t be ignored, especially if you’ve invested in orthodontic treatment. A night guard is a simple, effective way to protect your teeth, preserve your results, and improve your overall oral health. If you’re experiencing symptoms of grinding or clenching, don’t wait to seek help.
At Freels Orthodontics, your McAllen orthodontist is here to provide personalized care that goes beyond braces and aligners. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how a night guard can protect your smile for years to come. Your teeth have been through a lot to get where they are today. Let’s make sure they stay that way.
