OCCLUSAL GUARDS

Are you experiencing frequent headaches, earaches, sensitive teeth or fatigued jaw muscles? You may be in the habit of clenching or grinding your teeth. The evidence of this can usually be seen as wear areas on the teeth or cracks caused by the heavy pressure. Our expert dentist or assistants at Dentistry of South Florida can confirm whether you are participating in teeth grinding or not.

Bruxism, or grinding of the teeth, can also worsen the effects of periodontal disease, cause bite problems and pain or misalignment of the jaw joint (TMJ). Bruxism can also cause esthetic concerns by wearing down the teeth and changing your smile. Staining can also occur in the worn areas, which gives the smile a dull and aged appearance.

The occlusal guard will interrupt the grinding process. The appliance may not completely break the habit, but it will stop further damage to the teeth, alleviate pain and allow for a more restful sleep.

An occlusal guard (sometimes called a night guard) is made of plastic and most often fits over the upper teeth. Many people wear the appliance at night when they are most likely to clench or grind their teeth. Two appointments are needed to make an occlusal guard.

The first appointment, our doctors will take impressions of your teeth, then send the impressions to a lab, where the occlusal guard is fabricated. During the second appointment, she will adjust the occlusal guard, making sure that the appliance fits correctly and is comfortable to wear. Will provide you with instructions on how to wear and care for the new appliance.