Night Guards (Custom Dental Appliance for Teeth Grinding, Bruxism) in Washington, D.C.

Bruxism, or grinding your teeth while you sleep, is a common problem that affects many people. Even though the most obvious sign of damage is the deterioration of the surface of the teeth, nocturnal bruxism might also lead to inflammation, headaches, and tooth pain, as well as discomfort in your neck and jaw. To protect your mouth against these effects of bruxism, our skilled dental professionals provide custom night guards that help defend your mouth while you sleep. Custom night guards are made with high-quality materials to fit comfortably and help improve the nature of your sleep by eliminating jaw clenching and teeth grinding. Schedule a consultation at our Washington, D.C. dental practice to learn more about custom night guards at Chang & Rothkopf Dental.

A number of symptoms may indicate that you are grinding your teeth and/or clenching your jaw at night. Maybe you frequently wake up in the morning with pain in your jaw, a headache, and facial swelling. Other signs are loose teeth and/or fillings, worn down enamel on your back teeth, tooth sensitivity, and a receding gumline. Teeth grinding and jaw clenching at night are often caused by stress but can also be brought on by misaligned teeth, allergies, a sleep disorder, or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). After a bruxism diagnosis is made, our dental team will also try to find out the cause so your night guard therapy may be coupled with another treatment for the best possible results.

Can I wear a night guard if I have braces or dental restorations?

Yes, individuals with braces, dental crowns, bridges, or other dental restorations can still wear a night guard to protect their teeth and orthodontic appliances during sleep. Some night guard designs are specifically designed to accommodate braces or dental work and may require adjustments or modifications for a proper fit. It's essential to consult with our team in Washington, D.C., to ensure the night guard is compatible with existing dental treatments.

How should I care for my night guard?

Proper care and maintenance of a night guard are essential for prolonging its lifespan and ensuring effectiveness. Rinse the night guard with cool water before and after each use, and clean it regularly with a mild soap or denture cleaner and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Store the night guard in a ventilated container when not in use, away from heat sources and direct sunlight. It's also important to attend regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of the night guard and ensure it remains in good condition.

How long does a night guard last?

The lifespan of a night guard depends on factors such as the material used, the severity of bruxism, and how well it is cared for. On average, a custom-fitted night guard can last anywhere from 1 – 5 years with proper care. Over time, the night guard may show signs of wear and tear and may need to be replaced to maintain optimal protection and comfort.

Grinding your teeth can cause pain and discomfort in a number of ways. Night guards are a great option to lessen the fatigue caused by the negative side effects of jaw clenching and teeth grinding. Specialized night guards from Chang & Rothkopf Dental can also benefit your overall oral health and ward off future issues. If this sounds like a solution to your worries or you want to learn more, call our office in Washington, D.C., to set up a consultation.