ADA Accessibility Information
Accessibility

A
A

A
Facebook social media icon Google social media icon
Home Dental Services Family Dentistry Nightguard

Nightguard


Close up of a simple mouthguard being held up by an excited woman at Lakeview Dental Center Night guards are removable dental appliances made of plastic or acrylic. They fit over your upper or lower teeth to provide a cushion between your teeth, preventing the damage that occurs when you grind or clench your teeth during sleep. There are several types of night guards, ranging from soft materials to more durable, hard acrylic, depending on the severity of the issue they address.

What Are Night Guards Used For?


The primary purpose of night guards is to protect the teeth and jaw from the effects of bruxism, a condition where individuals grind or clench their teeth during sleep. Bruxism can lead to:
•  Tooth damage: Grinding can wear down the enamel, causing chips, cracks, and even tooth fractures over time.
•  Jaw pain: Continuous clenching and grinding can strain the jaw muscles, leading to pain, stiffness, and headaches.
•  TMJ disorders: Bruxism is often linked with TMJ disorders, which affect the jaw joints and can cause discomfort, clicking sounds, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth.

Night guards help to reduce these symptoms by providing a protective barrier that prevents direct contact between the upper and lower teeth, thus minimizing the effects of grinding or clenching.

How Are Night Guards Made?


The process of getting a night guard usually involves a visit to the dentist, where they assess your symptoms and determine whether a night guard is the best treatment option. If so, the procedure for creating a custom night guard includes:
•  Consultation and impression: Our doctors will take impressions of your teeth, either using a dental putty or a digital scanner, to create a custom-fitted night guard. The impression ensures that the night guard fits your teeth perfectly, providing comfort and maximum protection.
•  Lab creation: The impressions are sent to a dental lab where technicians use the mold to create the night guard. The material used can vary depending on the severity of bruxism or TMJ symptoms. Softer materials are used for mild cases and harder acrylic for more severe cases.
•  Fitting and adjustments: Once the night guard is ready, you will return to Lakeview Dental Center to ensure it fits properly. Adjustments are made if necessary to maximize comfort and effectiveness.

How Long Do Night Guards Last?


The longevity of a night guard depends on the severity of bruxism and how well it is maintained. A properly cared-for night guard can last anywhere from two to five years. However, if you are a heavy teeth grinder, your night guard may need replacement more frequently as the material wears down.

How to Maintain Your Night Guard


Proper care of a night guard is vital to ensure its effectiveness and longevity. Here are some tips for maintaining your night guard:
•  Rinse after each use: Rinse your night guard with cold water after removing it in the morning to wash away saliva and debris.
•  Clean regularly: Brush the night guard gently with a toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or a mild soap. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the material.
•  Store properly: When not in use, store your night guard in a ventilated case to allow it to dry and prevent bacterial growth.
•  Soak occasionally: To keep it fresh, soak the night guard in a denture-cleaning solution or a mix of water and vinegar once a week.

Do You Need a Night Guard?


If you find yourself in need of a nighttime mouth guard, Call us at (971) 374-5600 and we will set you up an appointment.


Clock icon Analog clock face

Office Hours


Monday-Wednesday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am-4:00pm
Friday, Saturday, Sunday Closed.
Copyright © 2024-2025 Lakeview Dental Center and WEO Media (Touchpoint Communications LLC). All rights reserved.  Sitemap
Lakeview Dental Center, 2601 25th St SE Suite 430, Salem, OR 97302 • (971) 374-5600 • dentistinsalem.com • 1/14/2025 • Related Phrases: dentist Salem OR •