Hitting “snooze” on damage caused by teeth grinding; keeping you in the game with night and sports mouthguards
At The Art of Dentistry, we appreciate that our patients from across the Lilburn, Georgia, area are more than healthy gums and a set of sparkling, attractive teeth. Led by Dr. Moosa Dalwai, our practice blends considerable artistry with technical competency and science to support the health of the mouth as well as overall health and well-being. We account for the connection between the oral cavity and the “rest of you” in the services that are provided by our friendly, professional team.
In fact, oral appliance therapy, including custom night guards and sports mouth guards, represents a category of treatments that stands apart. These appliances protect the teeth and so much more!
What are custom oral appliances?
The oral devices that we design are made to slip in and out of the mouth. They can be used to protect the teeth and tissues from damage caused by chronic teeth grinding or from sports-related injuries. Unlike the oral appliances or “mouthguards” that you can buy at the store or online, our devices are made to conform perfectly to the unique contours and tissues of your mouth. As a result, they will fit comfortably and function as intended to provide optimal protection for your teeth and other surrounding structures.
Why would I need a “night guard”?
The term “night guard” refers to the behavior that we are attempting to address with oral appliance therapy. Many patients tend to grind their teeth when they are asleep. Often, they do not know there is a problem with bruxism (the medical term for this condition) until after Dr. Dalwai spots the telltale signs. Bruxism is associated with a range of destructive effects and complications. They include excessive wear and tear to the tooth enamel, the gums that support the teeth, and even to dental work like fillings and crowns.
Can night guards help with my TMJ?
Patients with bruxism may also complain about ailments that seemingly transcend the mouth, such as frequent earaches, tension headaches, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Such symptoms may indicate dysfunction of the temporomandibular or jaw joints (TMJ), which can be caused by the extreme force associated with chronic teeth grinding. This habit can stress the joints as well as the interconnected system of muscles, ligaments, cartilage, and other tissues. For this reason, the discomfort and other distressing symptoms can radiate and go well beyond the highly localized area of the teeth. By cushioning the blow from teeth grinding and jaw clenching, you can not only protect the teeth from damage but also experience relief from TMJ disorder symptoms that can interfere with day-to-day function and adversely affect your quality of life.
Why should I get a custom sports guard when I can buy one at the store?
The Art of Dentistry takes great care to ensure that your (or your child’s) mouthguards fit precisely and comfortably. They are also made from the highest-performance materials. They are designed to last, which gives them fantastic value. Plus, even after the mouthguard has been delivered to you, Dr. Dalwai continuously assesses its condition at every check-up and works with you to keep your appliance in top shape. Because our appliances will not slide around, student-athletes or weekend warriors alike get the most out of the guard. They are more likely to wear them, as the custom-fit nature of the device promotes sustained comfort and does not interfere with athletic performance.
To experience the ease and effectiveness of dentist-approved nightguards, sports guards, and other oral appliances, schedule an appointment at our office. Our team in Lilburn, GA can be reached at (470) 570-9699.
