Custom-Made Occlusal Guards (Night Guards) in Rochester, NY
What is a night guard?
During your treatment at Dental Prosthodontics of Rochester, Dr. Kuyunov may recommend that you wear a custom-fitted night guard while you sleep. A night guard is a therapeutic plastic prosthesis that is worn on either your upper or lower teeth. The most common reason for wearing a night guard is to treat bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching). A night guard helps prevent the erosion of tooth enamel caused by grinding your teeth, and may also improve symptoms of temporomandibular joint disease.
Dr. Kuyunov may also recommend a night guard to protect teeth in patients who have dental bridges, dental crowns, or porcelain veneers, as well as those with dental implants. Patients may also benefit from a night guard to protect facial muscles and joints if there are signs of temporomandibular joint disorder. If you have missing teeth, a night guard may also be recommended to prevent teeth from drifting into the empty spaces. If you feel that a night guard may be right for you, contact our office to schedule an appointment.
What are the benefits of getting a custom-fit night guard?
By preventing teeth grinding, you can prevent the many issues it may cause. Some of the top benefits of wearing a night guard include:
- Symptom Relief: Night guards can relieve symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorders, facial muscle pain, and related dental issues.
- Protects Teeth: Night guards protect your teeth by keeping them safe and intact. They also prevent enamel erosion and weakening of teeth, as well as erosion of ceramic material on crowns, veneers, and dental bridges.
- Greater Comfort: Custom-fit night guards are comfortable to wear because they are made to perfectly fit your mouth and teeth, as opposed to store-bought night guards which can be uncomfortable.
Who should consider getting a night guard?
Night guards (occlusal guards) can help improve symptoms of bruxism and more. You may want to consider getting a custom-fit night guard if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Soreness in your jaw or around the ear.
- Difficulty opening your mouth wide or chewing.
- A clicking sound when you open or close your mouth.
- Headaches upon waking, along with other symptoms listed here.
- Your jaw seems to get stuck or locked in a position.
- A sudden uncomfortable bite.
- A chipped tooth not caused by an injury while awake.
- Swelling in your face around your jaw area.
- Your partner tells you that you are grinding your teeth while you sleep.
What is the process for getting a night guard?
Step 1 – Consultation
Your prosthodontist will conduct a comprehensive examination of your oral health to determine if you would be a good candidate for a night guard.
Step 2 – Fabrication
Molds of your teeth and your unique bite are used to recreate your mouth in a dental lab setting, where your custom-made plastic night guard (occlusal guard) is fabricated.
Step 3 – Fitting
The occlusal guard is typically ready after a few weeks. During your fitting appointment, your prosthodontist will ensure that your night guard fits perfectly and is comfortable to wear. Any small adjustments needed will be made at this time.
Looking for custom-fit night guards in Rochester, NY? Visit Dr. Isaac Kuyunov
Temporomandibular joint disorders can have serious consequences, including weakening your teeth, causing breakage and erosion of tooth enamel, as well as headaches, jaw pain, and facial pain. Dr. Kuyunov can help by fitting you with a custom-made night guard (occlusal guard). Call us today at (585) 522-1922 to make an appointment, or click the link below.