Nightguard

Are you considering a nightguard in the Kathmandu area?

A nightguard is a retainer-like oral device that cushions and protects the teeth from the forces of clenching and grinding. It covers the biting surface of the teeth and can be worn on either the upper or lower teeth set. They are also known as mouthguards, dental guards, nocturnal bite plates, or occlusal guards.

What is bruxism?

Teeth clenching and grinding at night is known as Bruxism. A hectic lifestyle often leads to stress. In addition, the COVID pandemic has put a strain on people’s finances, resulting in more causes of stress. Consequently, teeth grinding and clenching are becoming more common in major cities in Nepal like Kathmandu. However, it is important to understand that bruxism is a behavior, not a disease. It is largely subconscious and often occurs during sleep.

Because bruxism happens while you are sleeping, you have no control over this, and it can be damaging. Bruxism is not good for your teeth and jaw. Bruxism can cause tooth fractures, tooth loosening, or tooth loss. Chronic bruxism can also cause severe tooth attrition. If the loss of tooth structure continues, it can lead to severe tooth sensitivity necessitating root canals and crowns in multiple teeth. Not just teeth, bruxism can also cause pain and discomfort in your TMJ.

 

Causes of Bruxism

There are no exact known causes for bruxism but it is thought to be precipitated or exacerbated by stress and anxiety

1. Stress and anxiety. Stress also leads to the over-production of gastric acid and reflux. This in turn erodes enamel.
2. Poor sleep habits. It increases non-REM sleep, which is when most people brux.
3. Most people are unaware that they grind their teeth but a dentist can identify the behavior based on tooth wear.

 Signs of Bruxism

One way is to look at the surface of your teeth. If instead of being pointed, they have all flattened, you grind your teeth in your sleep.

1. Chipped teeth
2. Severe flattening of teeth
3. Loose teeth in the absence of periodontal disease
4. TMJ/ Jaw pain
5. Morning headache

If you think you are a bruxer and are clenching and grinding, You better wear a nightguard when you sleep.

CONTACT US AT SHANGRILA DENTAL CLINIC FOR CONSULTATION.

Benefits of wearing a nightguard?

1. Prevents damage to teeth: Teeth grinding causes loss of enamel. Loss of hard protective outer covering enamel makes your teeth more susceptible to caries. It also makes your teeth more sensitive to cold and later to hot food. When this tooth structure loss keeps increasing, it exposes your teeth’ pulp leading to severe pain. Teeth grinding can also cause cracks or fractures of weak teeth. If the cracks are not too deep, your dentist may do a filling. But deeper cracks and fractures or anything exposing pulp needs more costly treatment like root canal treatment and crown.
2. Prevents TMJ pain: Clenching can cause pain and discomfort in and around the ear area.
3. Can relieve chronic headache: Bruxism leads to tense muscles in and around the mouth, jaws, neck, and shoulder causing a chronic headache. A nightguard eliminates bruxism-related headaches because your muscles are no longer tensed.
4. Saves money in the long run: Once you compare the cost of a custom nightguard in Kathmandu with the cost of restorative dentistry, the former is way cheaper. Once your teeth wear off and become sensitive- fillings, root canals, and dental crowns in multiple teeth will be costly. Visit us at Shangrila Dental Clinic in Kathmandu to know if the headaches, TMJ pain, or teeth sensitivity are due to teeth grinding and clenching in your sleep. If so, our dentists will recommend a custom nightguard for you.
   

   Why custom-made nightguard is better?

   Since each person has different teeth patterns, a nightguard should be custom-made for each person. A nightguard made at a dental clinic using your teeth mold will fit precisely to your teeth and bite and will be much more comfortable. A custom-fabricated nightguard fits well to your teeth. Much of the force from clenching and grinding will be transferred to the nightguard instead of the teeth. While the nightguards won’t stop you from grinding, they act to protect the teeth like a bumper. Nightguards can be soft or hard. Soft nightguards are made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). Softnighguards are suitable for clenchers. Heavy grinders and chompers with TMJ issues might require the hard acrylic nightguard.

    

Should I wear an upper or lower nightguard?

If you also grind your teeth during the day, wear a lower one. It is less inconspicuous and can even be worn during the day. If you gag a lot, prefer a lower nightguard. Other than that your dentist will choose the teeth arch which is more aligned with no or fewer teeth missing. This results in a better fit.

How do I Care for my nightguard

1. Wear them before sleeping.
2. Wash your nightguard before and after each use. Rinse it with clean cold water and mild soap. You may also use your mouth rinse.
3. Protect the nightguard from high temperatures like hot water, a hot surface, or direct sunlight.
4. Store your nightguard in a clean container when not in use.
5. Check regularly. If it feels loose or there are holes and tears in it, replace it.

Shangrila Dental Clinic offers a wide range of dental services. Our dentists will advise you on whether you need a nightguard and treat any dental issues you may have.

Contact us today (9841815537) to schedule your appointment.