What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a custom-made acrylic device that fits over your teeth like a retainer. By providing a protective barrier, this acrylic shield helps to prevent teeth from coming into contact with each other, thus decreasing the chances of tooth damage, cracks, gum recession, and tooth misalignment. While a dental night guard doesn't entirely prevent clenching and grinding, the small tooth space of 2-4 millimeters formed by the night guard restricts the activation of jaw muscles. This limitation often results in individuals feeling less compelled, whether consciously or unconsciously, to clench or grind. Functioning as a unified acrylic unit, the night guard acts as a splint, preserving the correct alignment of all teeth and evenly dispersing any clenching or grinding pressure to avoid excessive stress on a single tooth or region.
Is Wearing a Night Guard Comfortable?
Initially, it may take some time for patients to get used to wearing a night guard, but after a few weeks, most patients will have fully adapted to using the appliance. In fact, some patients may become so accustomed to it that they feel uneasy and have trouble sleeping without the night guard.
What is the Lifespan of a Night Guard?
The durability of a night guard is largely determined by the level of wear it is subjected to. For individuals who grind their teeth heavily, a night guard may need replacement after just a year or two. Conversely, those who exert less pressure on their teeth can expect their dental night guard to last more than a decade. Patients who notice significant wear on their night guard within a short timeframe are advised to replace it regularly to safeguard their teeth from excessive force.
Is it Possible for a Night Guard to Cause a Shift in my Teeth?
Typically, a properly fitted night guard should not cause your teeth to shift or move. The night guard is custom-made based on the exact alignment of your teeth, covering them completely in their natural state. When you receive the night guard, it is important to check that the occlusion, or the way your teeth come together, is uniform and precise, as this will further prevent any potential tooth movement.
Is the Cost of a Night Guard Covered by Insurance?
While many insurance plans cover the cost of a dental night guard, it may not always be a guaranteed benefit, particularly with limited coverage policies. Providing photos and documentation demonstrating the necessity for the night guard can help with insurance claims.
If you believe it's time to consider using a night guard, address any queries or concerns with your dentist and begin the process today! Starting early with protection for your teeth can prevent the need for more complex and expensive dental procedures in the future. If you reside in Vancouver BC, contact Lux Dental at 604-670-1256 to begin your journey towards protecting your dental health!
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