Night Guards for Bruxism: Protecting Your Smile During Sleep

Bruxism, or involuntary teeth grinding and clenching, is a silent yet destructive condition that can cause extensive damage to teeth and surrounding structures. Many patients are unaware of this habit as it often occurs during sleep. At LHC Clinic, we emphasize the importance of night guards, both soft and hard types, as an effective and non-invasive method to protect your teeth from the long-term consequences of bruxism.

In this article, we explore what night guards are, how they work, the differences between soft and hard guards, and when they are essential for maintaining oral health.

What Is a Night Guard?

A night guard, also known as an occlusal splint or bite guard, is a custom-made dental appliance worn over the teeth during sleep. Its primary function is to create a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing the forces of grinding and preventing direct tooth-to-tooth contact.

Why Is a Night Guard Necessary?

Without a night guard, chronic bruxism can lead to:

• Severe tooth wear and fractures.
• Jaw pain and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
• Gum recession and loosening of teeth.
• Headaches and facial muscle fatigue.
• Damage to dental restorations like crowns, veneers, and implants.

Types of Night Guards Offered at LHC Clinic

1. Soft Night Guards

• Made from flexible, soft materials.
• Recommended for mild to moderate grinders.
• Comfortable and easy to adapt for first-time users.
• Suitable for patients with sensitive teeth or gums.

2. Hard Night Guards

• Fabricated from durable, rigid acrylic.
• Ideal for severe bruxism cases and heavy clenchers.
• Provides more stable bite alignment.
• Can assist in TMJ therapy by repositioning the jaw.

Which Night Guard Is Right for You?

At LHC Clinic, we carefully evaluate:

• The severity of your grinding or clenching.
• The level of damage already present.
• Your bite and jaw alignment.
• Your comfort and lifestyle needs.

For example:

• Mild to moderate bruxism → Soft Night Guard.
• Severe grinding, TMJ disorders, or advanced wear cases → Hard Night Guard.

Night Guard Fabrication Process at LHC Clinic

• Diagnosis: Detailed examination, digital impressions, and bite analysis. Muscle and joint evaluation if TMJ symptoms are present.
• Custom Design: Night guards are crafted to fit your dental arches precisely. Personalized to your bite to ensure optimal comfort and protection.
• Delivery and Instructions: Fitting and comfort adjustments. Instructions for use, cleaning, and storage.
• Follow-Up: Regular check-ups to monitor the condition of the night guard and ensure effectiveness.

Care Tips for Your Night Guard

• Clean daily with mild soap and a soft brush.
• Store in a ventilated case when not in use.
• Avoid hot water that may warp the material.
• Bring your night guard to dental check-ups for evaluation.

Frequently Asked Patient Questions

Q: Can I buy over-the-counter night guards?
A: While available, over-the-counter guards are not custom-made and may not provide proper protection or comfort. Custom night guards from LHC Clinic are tailored to your bite, ensuring effective prevention of damage.

Q: Will a night guard stop me from grinding?
A: No, the night guard does not stop the habit but protects your teeth from damage caused by grinding.

Q: How long do night guards last?
A: Soft guards typically last 6 months to 1 year, while hard guards can last 2–5 years, depending on usage and care.

Night guards are a simple yet essential investment in preserving your teeth, restorations, and jaw health. Whether you suffer from mild clenching or severe grinding, LHC Clinic offers both soft and hard night guards tailored to your needs, providing maximum protection while ensuring comfort and durability.

Protect your smile from unseen nighttime threats and sleep peacefully knowing your oral health is in safe hands.