If you grind or clench your teeth at night—a condition known as bruxism—you may not even realize it until symptoms like jaw soreness, headaches, or tooth sensitivity appear. Common causes of bruxism include stress, sleep disorders, bite misalignment, and certain medications. Without treatment, it can lead to significant dental damage and discomfort over time. A custom nightguard offers essential protection by cushioning your teeth, reducing wear, and relieving jaw tension for better oral health and improved sleep.
At Eastern Virginia Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our experienced dentists are committed to protecting your smile with comprehensive, preventative dental care—including professionally crafted nightguards. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of bruxism or simply want to safeguard your long-term oral health, our team is here to help.
What Is a Nightguard?
A nightguard is a custom-made dental appliance worn over the teeth during sleep to protect against grinding or clenching. Made from durable plastic, it serves as a cushion between the upper and lower teeth, helping to reduce enamel wear, prevent fractures, and relieve jaw pain or morning headaches. There are different types of nightguards—including soft, hard, and hybrid designs—each suited to different levels of bruxism or jaw tension. Our team typically recommends a nightguard if you show signs of tooth damage, bite stress, or discomfort caused by nighttime grinding.
What Are the Benefits of a Nightguard?
A nightguard offers several important benefits for patients who grind or clench their teeth:
- Protects tooth enamel from excessive wear, chips, or cracks, reducing the need for future dental work.
- Relieves jaw tension and helps ease symptoms of bruxism and TMJ-related discomfort.
- Improves sleep quality by minimizing unconscious clenching and grinding during rest.
- Prevents headaches and facial soreness, often caused by nighttime muscle strain.
Custom nightguards typically offer the most comfortable and effective fit, tailored to your bite and individual dental needs.
Types of Nightguards
In addition to their many benefits, nightguards often come in several designs to match different levels of grinding and patient preferences. Our team can help determine the best type for your needs:
- Soft nightguards are flexible, making them ideal for mild teeth grinding.
- Hard nightguards are made from more rigid, durable materials suitable for severe bruxism or TMD-related issues.
- Hybrid nightguards combine the comfort of soft materials with the durability of hard plastics, making them a versatile choice for many patients.
What Dental Concerns Can a Nightguard Address?
Nightguards help protect against several dental concerns, most notably bruxism and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Bruxism often occurs during sleep and can lead to worn-down teeth, enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and even cracks or fractures. A nightguard absorbs the grinding force, preventing further damage to your teeth.
For individuals suffering from TMJ Disorder, nightguards can help reduce pressure on the jaw joints and surrounding muscles. By slightly repositioning the jaw and relieving tension, they may alleviate symptoms such as jaw pain, stiffness, headaches, and clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth.
Nightguards may also help minimize the risk of gum recession caused by clenching and reduce morning discomfort from overnight muscle tension. When custom-made by a skilled dentist, a nightguard offers a secure, comfortable fit for optimal protection and long-term relief.
How Do I Care for My Nightguard?
Proper care helps extend the life of your nightguard and keeps it hygienic. Tips for nightguard maintenance include:
- Rinse it with cool water after each use.
- Gently brush it with a soft toothbrush—avoid toothpaste, as it can be abrasive.
- Allow it to air dry completely before storing it in a clean, ventilated case.
- Once a week, clean it thoroughly with mild soap or a non-alcoholic denture cleaner.
- Avoid exposing it to hot water or sunlight, which can warp its shape.
- Bring your nightguard to your regular dental visits for inspection and professional cleaning.
Protect Your Smile While You Sleep
To learn more about dental nightguards or to schedule a consultation, contact Eastern Virginia Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Chesapeake. Our team is here to help you protect your smile with a custom-fit nightguard designed just for you.