Nightguard Therapy

a woman with a sore mouth who is looking at an x-ray

Grinding & Clenching (Sleep Bruxism)

8-10% of the adult population have a secret disease called Sleep Bruxism, repeated grinding and clenching of their teeth. Some people do it unconsciously even when awake. Stress usually has something to do with it. It can cause mobility and loss of teeth if not treated.

Bruxism in addition to gum disease is a serious health problem. This combination causes fast tooth loss due to the accelerated bone loss. During sleep, Bruxism can cause the teeth to contact as much as 40 minutes/hour with 250 pounds of force.

a dental nightguard

Dental Nightguards

Although the condition might be treated with medication, the most effective method is a dental Nightguard. An impression is made of the teeth, a bite registry, and sent to the lab. We use Gildewell Laboratories. The hard, polished, acrylic Nightguard is delivered, and Dr. Alford adjusts it to have as many teeth contacts as possible.

a person lying on a bed

How Do They Work?

Its success is due to keeping the muscles of mastication stretched and relaxed as well as not allowing individual teeth to be contacted. Force distribution is even and teeth are splinted for protection. This is very important part of periodontal disease treatment as well as prevention of occlusal disorder. it may be from the effects of grinding or clenching your teeth.

Custom-Made Bite Splints

The good news is your dentist may be able to prescribe a custom-made Comfort H/S™ (Hard/Soft) Bite Splint, which offsets the pain caused by bruxing or grinding your teeth.

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