Visit Your Dentist In Fort Lauderdale For A Custom-Made Night Guard To Protect Your Teeth

Do I Need A Night Guard?

Do you wake up with a sore jaw or a headache? Do you find yourself clenching your teeth throughout the day? If so, you might be a grinder! Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition where you unconsciously clench or grind your teeth.

While bruxism might not sound like a big deal, your dentist in Fort Lauderdale wants you to know teeth grinding can lead to some serious dental problems down the road, including:

• Worn down or flattened teeth
• Exposed dentin
• Fractured teeth
• Broken dental crowns or bridges
• Increased sensitivity
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Jaw pain and headaches

The good news is that there's a simple solution: night guards! Your dentist at Excellence in Dentistry will make a custom-made mouthpiece to fit snugly over your teeth, creating a barrier that will protect yout teeth from the wear and tear of grinding.

Why Are Night Guards So Popular?

Increased Awareness: More people are becoming aware of bruxism and its potential consequences, such as tooth damage, jaw pain, and headaches.

Rising Stress Levels: Modern lifestyles often involve high levels of stress, which can exacerbate bruxism and increase the need for night guards.

Improved Technology: Advancements in dental technology have led to more comfortable and effective night guard designs.

Direct-to-Consumer Options: Companies that advertise over-the-counter night guards and online retailers have increased awareness by offering night guard devices without a dental prescription.

Can I Use A Night Guard From The Pharmacy?

While over-the-counter night guards can be purchased from your local pharmacy or online, the custom-made night guard provided by your dentist is superior in numerous ways:

• Custom Fit:  Dr. Nancy Rotroff and Dr. Gerard Wasselle provide custom-made night guards precisely molded to fit your specific teeth and bite, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness.
• Material Quality:  At Excellence in Dentistry, our dental providers use high-quality materials and dental laboratories to ensure your night guard is durable and designed to withstand the forces of teeth grinding.
• Professional Guidance:  During your dental checkup, Dr. Rotroff or Dr. Wasselle can assess your specific needs, recommend the best type of night guard for you, and provide instructions on proper care and use.
• Long-Term Benefits: A well-fitting night guard can protect your teeth from damage, reduce jaw pain, and improve your overall quality of sleep.

While store-bought night guards may be more affordable, they often lack the precision and quality of custom-made options. In the long run, investing in a custom-made night guard from your Fort Lauderdale dentist can be a worthwhile decision for protecting your oral health.

How Do I Care For My Night Guard?

Once you have your night guard, proper care is essential to ensure it lasts and functions effectively. Here's how to keep your night guard happy:

• Clean it regularly: Rinse your night guard with clean, lukewarm water after each use. You can also gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild, unscented soap.  
• Store it safely: Keep your night guard in a sturdy, vented case to protect it from damage and dust.
• Bring it to your dental appointments: Your dentist can check for wear and tear and make sure it's still fitting properly.
• Don't Use Hot water: Hot water can warp your night guard.

• Don't use harsh soaps or toothpaste: These can be abrasive and damage the material.
• Don't Soak in mouthwash: Avoid soaking your night guard in mouthwash, especially those containing alcohol or dyes, as they can stain or weaken the material or stain your mouthguard.

Protecting Your Investment:

A high-quality night guard can be a valuable investment in your dental health. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your night guard lasts for years to come, protecting your teeth and giving you a more restful sleep.

Bonus Tip! If you suspect you might be grinding your teeth, schedule an appointment with your dentist at Excellence in Dentistry by calling 954-928-1666  to discuss your concerns and get a night guard fitted. Early intervention can prevent serious dental problems down the line.