Occlusal Guards
In order to protect teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching at night, My Plantation Dentist may suggest an occlusal guard, also known as a night guard. This dental device fits over the teeth and creates a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing wear on the tooth enamel.
Different guards are available depending on the severity of the condition, which the dentist can determine during an examination. Each guard is individualized by making a mold of the teeth to ensure a snug fit. After the occlusal guard is created, it is worn while sleeping and removed upon waking.
Although initially, it may take a little time to get used to wearing a guard, typically patients become comfortable wearing it within a very short period of time, experiencing a more restful sleep and freedom from sore or painful days.
Commonly asked questions:
Why do I grind or clench my teeth at night?
It may be caused by an abnormal bite, anxiety and stress, a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea, or even crooked or missing teeth.
Is this common?
Grinding or clenching of the teeth is known as bruxism and is a very common condition.
What are the symptoms?
Those who clench or grind their teeth may experience facial pain or soreness, headaches, contractions of the jaw muscles, swelling around the jaw, grinding noises at night, and general fatigue due to sleep disruption.
What dental problems may occur if I don’t treat this?
The grinding and clenching can cause teeth to become worn and lose their enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity, cracked teeth, and tooth loss.
Intraoral Scanners
My Plantation Dentist is a leader in dental technology and the dental equipment in our office includes an Itero intraoral digital scanner. These revolutionary scanners can accurately create detailed three-dimensional images for the diagnosis and treatment of many dental health issues.
The scanners can greatly assist with the early detection of dental conditions that are not painful or may not be seen by the unassisted eye including issues such as cracked teeth, decay, or gum disease. Instead of simply hearing about a problem, you can actually see it on the screen.
For treatment purposes, they can produce the detailed three-dimensional images needed to create the very best dental models for implants, veneers, and crowns. Additionally, an Itero scanner can also assist with the diagnosis and treatment planning of orthodontic issues.
