Protecting Your Smile While You Sleep
At Coastal Family Dentistry, we help patients who suffer from bruxism, the involuntary grinding and clenching of teeth. For many people, this habit happens at night while they sleep, leaving them unaware of the damage it causes. Custom night guards provide an effective solution, protecting teeth and reducing strain on the jaw. For patients in Gulf Shores, AL, night guards are a simple and comfortable way to safeguard oral health and prevent long-term damage.
Why Bruxism is a Concern
Grinding and clenching may seem harmless at first, but over time, it can lead to serious dental problems. Excessive pressure wears down enamel, cracks fillings or crowns, and can even cause teeth to fracture. Many patients with bruxism wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or sensitive teeth.
If left untreated, bruxism can also contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. These conditions affect the jaw joint and muscles, leading to chronic pain, difficulty chewing, and other complications. A night guard helps prevent these issues by creating a barrier that absorbs pressure and reduces the force of grinding.
Benefits of Custom Night Guards
Patients choose night guards because they offer multiple benefits:
Protect teeth and restorations: Night guards prevent premature wear and damage to enamel, fillings, crowns, and implants.
Reduce jaw pain: By easing strain on the muscles and joints, night guards minimize morning discomfort.
Improve sleep quality: Many patients sleep better once grinding and clenching are controlled.
Prevent future complications: Night guards lower the risk of TMJ disorders and the need for costly dental treatments later.
Custom fit for comfort: Unlike store-bought guards, professionally made appliances fit perfectly and stay secure through the night.
Custom Guards vs. Store-Bought Options
Some patients wonder if store-bought night guards from the pharmacy are good enough. While these options may provide temporary relief, they are not designed for long-term protection. Over-the-counter guards are often bulky, uncomfortable, and prone to slipping during sleep. They can also cause jaw misalignment if not properly fitted.
Custom night guards from Coastal Family Dentistry are made to fit your unique bite. This ensures comfort, durability, and the highest level of protection. Investing in a professionally made guard helps prevent the extensive damage that bruxism can cause.
Your Comfort is Our Priority
Many patients are hesitant about wearing something while they sleep. At Coastal Family Dentistry, we emphasize that a custom-made night guard is slim, comfortable, and easy to adjust to. Most patients find they quickly forget they are even wearing it.
Cost is another common concern. While night guards are an investment, they often save patients from expensive treatments such as crowns, implants, or TMJ therapy. Protecting your natural teeth is always more affordable than replacing them.
What to Expect When Getting a Night Guard
At Coastal Family Dentistry, we make the process of getting a custom night guard simple and comfortable.
Step 1: Consultation and Diagnosis
Your dentist will evaluate your teeth, bite, and symptoms to confirm whether bruxism is the cause of your issues.
Step 2: Impressions or Digital Scans
We take precise impressions or digital scans of your teeth. This ensures the guard fits comfortably and securely.
Step 3: Fabrication
The impression is sent to a professional dental lab where your custom guard is crafted using durable, high-quality materials.
Step 4: Fitting and Adjustments
Once your night guard is ready, you will return to our office to try it on. The dentist makes any necessary adjustments to guarantee a perfect fit.
Step 5: Ongoing Care
We provide instructions for cleaning and caring for your guard. During future dental visits, we will check its condition and make adjustments if needed.
Night Guards as Part of Comprehensive Care
Night guards are just one aspect of how we treat bruxism. At Coastal Family Dentistry, we also work with patients to identify triggers, such as stress or misaligned bites, and recommend strategies to reduce grinding. For some, relaxation techniques or orthodontic treatment may complement the use of a night guard. Our goal is to create a personalized plan that protects both your teeth and overall well-being.
Long-Term Benefits for Patients in Gulf Shores
Choosing a night guard is about more than protecting your teeth. It is about improving your comfort, sleep quality, and long-term health. Patients who use night guards often report fewer headaches, less jaw tension, and greater confidence knowing their smiles are safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
Common signs include waking up with headaches, sore jaw muscles, tooth sensitivity, or noticing flat or worn-down teeth. Your dentist can confirm bruxism during an exam.
Are night guards comfortable to wear?
Yes. Custom-made guards are designed to fit snugly and comfortably, making them easy to wear throughout the night.
Will insurance cover a night guard?
Coverage varies by plan. Some dental insurance policies cover part or all of the cost. Our office team can help review your benefits.
How long do night guards last?
With proper care, custom night guards can last several years. If you grind heavily, you may need replacements more often.
Can children or teens use night guards?
Yes. If bruxism is detected in younger patients, a custom guard may be recommended to protect their developing teeth.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you suspect you are grinding your teeth at night, do not wait for the damage to get worse. At Coastal Family Dentistry in Gulf Shores, AL, we create custom night guards that protect your teeth and relieve the discomfort caused by bruxism. Call our office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more. A restful night and a healthier smile are within reach.