You’ve probably seen the kinds of mouthguards that some athletes put in before they play sports. But how are nightguards different and what are they used for? Aside from the obvious fact that nightguards are worn at night, there are some very special dental conditions that can benefit from wearing a custom-fitted oral appliance.
For Bruxism
Bruxism is the fancy name for the condition when someone constantly grinds or clenches their teeth. Since this often occurs while someone is sleeping, it’s beneficial for that person to wear a nightguard. Teeth may be small but they’re mighty. Regular pressure can lead to serious dental damage over time, in addition to morning head and/or jaw pain. With a nightguard in place, teeth are protected.
For TMJ Disorder
TMJ disorder, or TMD for short, is when someone has an issue with the temporomandibular joint. That’s the joint in your jaw that’s used when you open or close your mouth. TMD can cause jaw pain, jaw popping, jaw locking, and other symptoms. A special TMJ oral appliance can help reduce tension and relax your muscles so that those with TMD don’t wake up with a sore jaw or headache.
For Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is when someone’s airway is obstructed, causing them to be deprived of oxygen as they sleep. Depending on the severity of sleep apnea, there are different types of treatments available. A specific oral appliance for sleep apnea can reposition your jaw while it’s being worn to open up that airway and ensure proper oxygen flow.
Oral Appliances at Hillstream Dental
If you have any other questions, feel free to call or email us. If you think you might need a nightguard, we invite you to schedule a consultation at either our Rochester Hills or St. Clair Shores practice location. We can provide you with a custom-fitted nightguard that solves your dental issue. The Hillstream Dental team is here to serve your smile!
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