Night Guards

What is an Occlusal Guard/Night Guard?

An Occlusal Guard, commonly referred to as a night guard, is a custom-made dental appliance designed to protect your teeth from damage caused by teeth clenching and grinding, a condition known as bruxism. This horseshoe-shaped piece of durable plastic fits comfortably over your teeth and serves as a physical barrier, preventing direct contact between your upper and lower teeth. By wearing an Occlusal Guard, you can avoid wearing down your enamel, reducing the risk of cracks, chips, and other long-term damage caused by clenching and grinding. At Hometown Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping our patients maintain a healthy smile by providing effective solutions like the Occlusal Guard.

Why Do I Need an Occlusal Guard?

Many people grind or clench their teeth during sleep, often without realizing it. This behavior is usually stress-induced and can be exacerbated by factors such as anxiety, sleep disorders, or even misaligned teeth. In fact, most of our patients aren’t aware that they are grinding their teeth until it’s pointed out by a partner or our dentist in Ridgefield, CT. Grinding often occurs during the night when we’re not conscious of it, but it can also happen during the day in response to stress. Over time, teeth grinding can lead to headaches, jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, and worn-down teeth, which can eventually result in tooth fractures or gum recession.

Wearing an Occlusal Guard at night helps to protect your teeth by cushioning the impact between the upper and lower teeth, reducing the effects of grinding and clenching. In some cases, if you experience severe grinding or clenching during the day, our dentist in Ridgefield, CT may recommend wearing a day guard as well.

How Does an Occlusal Guard Work?

The Occlusal Guard is made of hard acrylic material, which is designed to withstand the pressure of teeth grinding. Dr. Ritzcovan will customize the guard to fit your unique dental structure for maximum comfort and effectiveness. While the material may become cloudy or discolored over time, it does not impact the guard’s function. The guard is typically worn on the upper teeth because it is more comfortable and easier to fit, though some people may require a lower teeth guard depending on their specific needs.

Benefits of Wearing an Occlusal Guard

The primary benefit of wearing an Occlusal Guard is protecting your teeth from the harmful effects of bruxism. It can prevent excessive wear on your teeth, reducing the likelihood of tooth fractures and decay. It can also help alleviate jaw pain, headaches, and neck stiffness caused by clenching. By wearing a night guard regularly, you can help preserve your teeth and protect them from the long-term damage that grinding can cause.

At Hometown Family Dentistry, we understand how important it is to take care of your teeth and overall oral health. If you’re experiencing symptoms of teeth grinding or clenching, or if you’re unsure whether an Occlusal Guard might benefit you, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Our dentist in Ridgefield, CT will evaluate your situation and provide you with the best treatment options tailored to your needs. Let us help you protect your smile and enjoy better oral health!