Why grinding is worth treating
Grinding and clenching (bruxism) put far more force on teeth than chewing does. Over time that can wear down enamel, crack teeth and fillings, loosen crowns and leave your jaw muscles sore. A night guard doesn't stop the habit itself, but it takes the force so your teeth don't.
Custom guard vs. store-bought
Boil-and-bite guards from the pharmacy are bulky, can fit unevenly and wear through quickly. A custom guard is made from an exact model of your teeth, so it's thinner, fits securely, and is easier to sleep in, which makes it more likely you'll actually wear it.
Getting your night guard
- ExamDr. Tamkeen looks for signs of wear, cracks and jaw tenderness, and asks about your sleep and symptoms.
- ImpressionsWe take impressions or a scan of your teeth.
- Custom fabricationYour guard is made to fit your teeth and bite.
- FittingWe check the fit and adjust it so your bite feels even and comfortable.
- Follow-upWe check the guard at your regular visits and let you know when it needs replacing.
When it may be more than grinding
Loud snoring, gasping at night or daytime sleepiness can be signs of a sleep breathing problem. If we notice those signs, we'll suggest you talk with your physician, since a night guard isn't a treatment for sleep apnea.
Insurance and cost
We accept most PPO dental plans, including Delta Dental, Cigna, Aetna, MetLife, United Concordia and Guardian. Coverage for night guards varies a lot from plan to plan, so we check your benefits and give you the cost before we start.