At Woodmeadow, our dental team creates custom-fitted athletic mouthguards to be worn during sports activities. Made of soft plastic, these guards are comfortable in the mouth as they protect teeth and gums from sports-related injuries.
Additionally, we also create custom nightguards to be worn during sleep to mitigate the consequences of nighttime tooth clenching and grinding (also known as bruxism), which wear down teeth at the same time as commonly causing headaches and other pain in the jaw and neck. Most people are unaware of their tooth grinding habits since the act occurs during sleep, but this habit is readily detectable by your dentist since it is manifested as wear on teeth.
Tooth wear from involuntary grinding is a gradual, lifelong process that can lead issues that compromise cosmetics (ranging from jagged to severely miniaturized teeth) and comfort (due to the wearing away of tooth enamel leading to increased sensitivity). The habit of tooth clenching and grinding, if present, is unavoidable, but the use of a custom nightguard will prevent tooth wear as well as head-and-neck pain.
Athletic Mouthguards
Many people only go to the dentist when something is wrong. That is truly a shame, because they are missing out on so many preventive services that can save discomfort — and expense — down the road. Regular dental visits are essential to make sure oral health problems — from tooth decay to oral cancer — are detected and treated in a timely manner. Some individuals may need to see the dentist more often than others to stay on top of problems like plaque buildup and gum disease, but everyone should go at least once per year.
Nightguards
We also create custom nightguards to be worn during sleep to mitigate the consequences of nighttime tooth clenching and grinding (also known as bruxism), which wear down teeth at the same time as commonly causing headaches and other pain in the jaw and neck. Most people are unaware of their tooth grinding habits since the act occurs during sleep, but this habit is readily detectable by your dentist since it is manifested as wear on teeth.
Tooth wear from involuntary grinding is a gradual, lifelong process that can lead issues that compromise cosmetics (ranging from jagged to severely miniaturized teeth) and comfort (due to the wearing away of tooth enamel leading to increased sensitivity).
DOC’S TIPS: Don’t Ignore The Signs!
Chronic jaw pain, facial pain, ear pain, frequent tension headaches and migraines can all be signs of bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching). If you notice the signs of bruxism, you may benefit from a custom night guard. This night guard will be custom made to fit your smile comfortably and effectively, allowing you to sleep peacefully while protecting your smile.