Protecting your smile is an essential part of leading a healthy life. Thankfully, dental guards are available for this very purpose, and depending on why you need it, you can acquire a specialized one that fits your smile exactly.

A night guard is one type of device that you can acquire from a dentist near you. By keeping it in good condition, your device will last a reasonable amount of time before needing to be replaced.

To learn more about night guards in Winnipeg and why you might benefit from one, feel free to contact our dental office today.

Bruxism: A Closer Look

One of the most common reasons dentists in Winnipeg prescribe night guards to patients is to help them manage bruxism.

Bruxism is a condition characterized by grinding and clenching your teeth. This can happen during the day (known as awake bruxism), but it typically occurs while you’re sleeping. Therefore, most people don’t even know they have bruxism.

This issue can lead to multiple problems, both acute and severe, especially if it is left untreated, including the following:

  • Worn-down teeth
  • Broken teeth
  • Erosion of enamel
  • Damage to your TMJ
  • Muscle soreness
  • Pain when eating

Are you dealing with any of these issues? If so, talk to a dentist near you right away. They’ll discuss your situation and be able to suggest the most appropriate step forward.

How Night Guards Work

A night guard is a good option for patients of every age. Alongside bruxism, it can also help with sleep apnea. But how does it work?

This device is very easy to use. All you do is slip it in your mouth right before you go to bed, and that’s it! Most night guards in Winnipeg are designed from plastic or acrylic, providing a sturdy base and a comfortable fit. The guard separates your top and bottom row of teeth so they can’t rub against one another. By extension, your jaw muscles won’t be as active either, meaning they won’t be sore the next morning.

The type of guard that you purchase will determine the quality of protection that your smile receives. Customized night guards made by visiting a dentist and having impressions taken are the best since they’re made to fit you exactly and won’t slip around. OTC night guards are more affordable but don’t last nearly as long as their customized counterparts.

Your needs, budget, and what your dentist in Winnipeg advises are all factors that can influence the best guard for you.

Get in Touch with Grand Smiles Dental

The name of our clinic says it all: we believe every smile is grand and deserves to remain healthy for many years. If you want to get a night guard to protect your teeth from bruxism or related damage, call us to get started.