Do I have to wear a night guard forever?

In many cases, grinding will stop and a night guard will no longer be necessary once the sleep apnea has been addressed. In addition, many sleep apnea oral devices also address the problem of grinding.
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How long do I need to wear a Nightguard?

Night Guards will have varying durability depending on a number of factors. A night guard will have an average lifespan of 5 years, but depending upon the wear, it can need replacement in just 1 year.
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Do you have to wear a night guard every night?

Should you wear a nightguard every night? Yes, you should wear a night guard every night, especially if you experience severe bruxism. Not wearing your teeth night guard every night will still result in damaged teeth only at a much slower pace.
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What happens if you don't wear a night guard?

Not wearing your night guard means no relief of symptoms. You will experience the same headaches and facial pain, and could even end up with some of the worst symptoms on the list such as broken teeth and fillings.
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How long should I wear a mouthguard?

With proper care, your custom mouthguard's longevity could last as long as three to five years! However, due to general breakdown from usage, a good rule of thumb is to replace your mouthguard each year.
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Could you benefit from a night guard



Does bruxism go away?

Age. Bruxism is common in young children, but it usually goes away by adulthood.
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Do night guards cause cavities?

If you don't properly care for your nightguard, it could potentially lead to the development of cavities.
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Do night guards change your bite?

An ill-fitting night guard can actually adverse effects on your oral health by causing a change in your bite that will cause pain in your jaw.
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What can I use instead of a mouthguard?

If mouth guards are uncomfortable or do not help remedy the situation, consider these three alternative options to discuss with your dentist.
  • Occlusal Splints. One of the more similar treatments to a mouth guard is an occlusal splint. ...
  • Botox Treatments. ...
  • Biofeedback.
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Is a night guard worth it?

Expensive acrylic or rubber mouth or bite guards — often called night guards — are typically prescribed as a prophylactic. While night guards may help to prevent some dental wear and tear, some studies suggest they can be ineffective or even make the problem worse.
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Can a night guard change your face shape?

Summary. Bruxism, or teeth grinding as it is more commonly known, is a condition where a patient grinds their teeth. Most commonly occurring during sleep, the condition can cause many side effects, including damage to the teeth, enlarged facial muscles, and a change to the shape of the face.
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Why do my teeth hurt after wearing my night guard?

If you do experience pain or your mouth is hurting after wearing a night guard, it is a sign that your night guard is not fitted properly in your mouth. The device may be too large or too small and is not providing the adequate protection that you desire and need.
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Can I drink water with my night guard in?

Yes, it is alright to drink water while wearing your mouthguard. Make sure to floss and brush your teeth before wearing them to ensure no food and bacteria will be stuck to risk tooth decay and Mouthguard stains.
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Why do night guards smell?

That's because bacteria in your mouth can build up on your mouthguard. Without regular cleaning, the bacteria can multiply, causing infection or bad breath. Read on to learn how to clean your mouthguard and how to recognize the signs that it's time to get a new one.
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Can a Nightguard be too tight?

It feels too tight:

That “tight shoe” feeling is actually a good sign that it fits well to your teeth and that it will stay in while you sleep. Most of the new generation night guards use a special material that is actually quite pliable on the inside while maintaining its rigidity on the outside. Dr.
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What is the average cost of a night guard?

A night guard from the dentist can cost from $200 to $1,000, although most tend to cost between $300 and $500. This is the most expensive option because you're paying for the dentist's services.
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How do I stop grinding my teeth without a night guard?

Visit an expert dentist near you to get the most suitable option for your problem.
  1. Best Ways to Stop Grinding without a Mouth Guard. ...
  2. Treat Stress and Anxiety. ...
  3. Break Your Habit. ...
  4. Treat and Prevent Dental Problems. ...
  5. Get Self-help. ...
  6. Try Tapping. ...
  7. Reap the Perks of Acupuncture. ...
  8. Physical Therapy.
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How do I stop grinding my teeth at night without a night guard?

How to Stop Grinding Your Teeth
  1. Get a Nighttime Mouth Guard. Constant grinding can wear down the enamel on your teeth and make them more vulnerable to cavities. ...
  2. Start Exercising. ...
  3. Relax Right Before Bed. ...
  4. Massage Your Jaw Muscles. ...
  5. Become More Conscious of Your Clenching. ...
  6. Stop Chewing Everything but Food. ...
  7. Avoid Chewy Foods.
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What exercises stop teeth grinding?

Another exercise is designed to help with movement of the jaw:
  1. Step 1: Put your hands on your TMJ joints (where the lower jaw connects)
  2. Step 2: Slowly open your mouth.
  3. Step 3: Hold your mouth open for 5-10 seconds.
  4. Step 4: Slowly close your mouth.
  5. Perform 3 times per day, exercising for 10 minutes each time.
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Is a top or bottom night guard better?

Upper guards are typically recommended because they don't remove easily compared to lower teeth nightguard. Dentists favor lower guards because they are often more comfortable and easier to get used to. The ideal night guard should protect all your teeth while not affecting your natural bite.
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Can wearing a night guard make TMJ worse?

While most night guards can prevent enamel wear by avoiding direct teeth contact, it does not prevent grinding and clenching. In some cases, night guards actually increase the activity of the muscles that clench and this makes TMJ pain worse.
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Should night guard cover gums?

It Should Not Go To The Gum.

Since custom night guards are meant to prevent grinding they do not need to extend all the way to the gums. Your night guard will only come about half way up most of your teeth.
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Do mouthguards make your teeth yellow?

Discoloration on a mouthguard is, often, a good sign proper cleaning isn't happening. It's not uncommon for people to let saliva sit in the guard, and over time, this can create a yellowing effect. While it's common, that doesn't mean it's good for your oral health.
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Do night guards trap bacteria?

It covers the teeth and gums as it is meant to protect them from blunt force trauma. If worn at night, it traps bacteria on the gum's surface while you sleep since saliva can't get to the gums while wearing a sports mouth guard.
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Can night guards damage gums?

If you use a mouthguard properly, then it should actually protect your gums, rather than damage them. If, however, you use a dirty, damaged or ill-fitting mouthguard then you could actually be damaging your gums.
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