Bruxism is a condition where an individual unconsciously grinds or clenches their teeth. This condition flattens the teeth and wears down the dental enamel, which exposes a deeper tooth layer. One way to effectively treat this condition is through the use of night guards.
Night guards are acrylic pieces that fit over the teeth to stop further tooth movement, cracking, and gum recession brought on by sleep bruxism. It is designed to protect your teeth while in occlusion while holding the jaw in a relaxed position. This helps to reduce the tension that is created from grinding or clenching.
Types of night guards
During your visit with a dentist, expect them to recommend several types of night guards for you to use. There are three types of night guards which vary depending on your preference and needs.
The types of dental night guards are as follows:
- Soft Night Guard – This is the most common type used to treat mild cases of bruxism. It provides patients with the most comfortable fit and usually costs lower than the other type.
- Dual Laminate Night Guard – This kind of night guard has a soft interior and a firm exterior. As opposed to soft night guards, it is worn by patients with relatively severe cases of sleep bruxism.
- Hard Night Guard – It is made from acrylic materials, making it much more durable than the rest. It is commonly worn by patients that experience severe cases of bruxism and the Temporomandibular Joint.
How much do dental night guards cost?
Getting a night guard can be done in a number of ways. It may typically be purchased over-the-counter (OTC), which is considerably cheaper. The only drawback of OTC is that it does not guarantee to fit and may feel uncomfortable to wear.
On the other hand, a dentist in your area can make a customized night guard specifically for you. Colorado Springs dentists will ensure to use high-quality materials that properly fit your teeth. On average, night guards cost $300 to $400 and can go up to $1000.
Visit our dentist right away if you’re feeling any bruxism-related symptoms. At Crossroads Family Dentistry, we’ll give you the industry standard treatment to keep your teeth healthy and smile confidently.
To learn more on Crossroads Family Dentistry and night guards or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at (719) 596-3481.