What Are Night Guards?

There are a variety of different dental appliances that Boise dentists can prescribe in order to protect teeth and correct dental problems. One such appliance is the night guard. Night guards are used to protect teeth from grinding and clenching, which can cause chips, cracks, and even tooth loss.

If you are experiencing pain in your jaw, headaches, or neck pain, you may need a night guard. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of night guards and how they can improve your oral health.

What is a Night Guard?

A night guard is a custom-made dental appliance that is worn over the teeth at night. The night guard covers the biting surfaces of the teeth in order to protect them from grinding and clenching.

Clenching and grinding can put a lot of pressure on the teeth and jaw, which can lead to pain in the jaw, headaches, and neck pain. Night guards help to protect the teeth from this damage by absorbing the force of the bite.

There are two types of night guards: hard and soft. Hard night guards are made from a harder material, such as acrylic or plastic. They are designed to last longer and provide more protection for the teeth. However, they can be uncomfortable to wear and may make it difficult to breathe at night.

Soft night guards are made from a softer material, such as silicone. They are more comfortable to wear but do not last as long as hard night guards. Both types of night guards are effective in protecting the teeth and should be prescribed by a Boise dentist.

How Can Night Guards Improve Oral Health?

Wearing a night guard can improve your oral health in several ways.

• It can help to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching. This can prevent damage to the teeth, such as chips, cracks, and tooth loss.
• It can help to reduce pain in the jaw, headaches, and neck pain.
• It can help you to avoid costly dental repairs in the future.
• It can help you to get a good night’s sleep.
• It can increase your confidence and improve your overall oral health.

Night guards are an important part of protecting your teeth and maintaining good oral health. If you think you may need a night guard, talk to your Boise dentist about whether one is right for you.

How Do I Choose the Right Night Guard?

There are several factors to consider when choosing a night guard. The first factor is the type of material. Hard night guards are more durable but can be uncomfortable to wear. Soft night guards are more comfortable but do not last as long.

The second factor is the size. Night guards come in a variety of sizes. It is important to choose a night guard that fits snugly over your teeth so that it does not move around while you sleep.

The third factor is the thickness. Night guards range in thickness from thin to thick. Thin night guards are less noticeable but may not provide as much protection for the teeth. Thick night guards are more noticeable but can provide more protection for the teeth.

The fourth factor is the price. Night guards range in price from $100 to $500 depending on the type, size, and thickness. Talk to your Boise dentist about which type of night guard is right for you and your budget.

Want to Explore Your Options?

If you are interested in learning more about night guards or other dental appliances, contact Summit Dental Group to schedule a consultation.

Our experienced Boise dentists will be happy to answer any questions you have and help you choose the right dental appliance for your needs. Contact us today by filling out our online form or give us a call at (208) 314-2275.