Here at 4th Avenue Dental Centre in Calgary, Alberta we are committed to providing the highest quality dental care to our patients. Part of our preventative services is the provision of custom bite guards.
What Are Bite Guards?
Bite guards are custom-made dental appliances that are designed to protect your teeth from the harmful effects of bruxism. They are made from high-quality materials such as soft plastic or hard acrylic and are worn over the teeth while you sleep or during sports, especially contact sports.
Bite guards work by providing a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other. This helps to reduce the damage caused by bruxism and can alleviate many of the symptoms associated with the condition.
Bite Guards for Bruxism: What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is a common condition that affects many people. It is characterized by grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep, and can cause a range of dental and physical health problems. Some of the most common symptoms of bruxism include:
- Headaches
- Jaw pain
- Sensitive teeth
- Earaches
- Insomnia
- Damaged teeth
If left untreated, bruxism can lead to more severe dental problems, including cracked or broken teeth, gum recession, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
Bite Guards for TMJ
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that affects the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. It can cause a range of symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing. Bite guards can be used to treat TMJ disorders by providing a cushion between the upper and lower teeth, reducing the strain on the jaw joint and muscles.
Bite guards for TMJ are typically made from a thicker material than those used to treat bruxism. They are custom-made to fit your teeth and can be worn during the day or at night, depending on your needs.
Sports Bite Guards
If you play contact sports such as football, hockey, or basketball, a sports bite guard can help protect your teeth from injury. Sports bite guards are custom-made to fit your teeth and are designed to absorb impact and prevent dental trauma.
Sports bite guards are typically made from a durable, shock-absorbing material such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). They can be worn during practice and games to protect your teeth and reduce the risk of injury.
Benefits of Bite Guards
There are several benefits to using a custom-made bite guard to treat bruxism, including:
- Protection – Bite guards provide a protective barrier between your teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other and reducing the risk of damage caused by bruxism.
- Pain relief – Bite guards can alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with bruxism, including headaches and jaw pain.
- Improved sleep – By reducing the symptoms of bruxism, bite guards can improve the quality of your sleep and help you feel more rested.
At 4th Avenue Dental Centre, we believe that prevention is the key to maintaining good oral health. If you think you could benefit from a bite guard, schedule an appointment with us today. Our team of dental professionals will be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you find the best solution for your needs.