Are You Grinding Your Teeth? Signs a Dental Guard May Be Worth Considering
Teeth grinding or clenching, also called bruxism, can happen while you are awake or asleep. Possible signs include:
- Flattened or worn tooth surfaces
- Chipped teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Jaw muscle soreness
- Morning headaches
These symptoms can have several causes, so they do not automatically mean that you need a dental guard. Dr. Simranjit Bawa will examine your teeth and bite, look for signs of wear, and ask about your symptoms before recommending treatment.
How Can a Dental Guard Help Protect Your Teeth?
A dental guard cushions the teeth and helps limit contact caused by grinding or clenching. This can limit additional wear and help protect vulnerable tooth surfaces.
A guard mainly protects the teeth. It does not necessarily stop the grinding habit itself or treat every cause of jaw discomfort or headaches.
Different mouthguards serve different purposes, so the recommended type matches your need for protection and what we find during your evaluation.
What Happens When You Are Evaluated for a Dental Guard?
A typical visit may include:
- Reviewing your symptoms: We ask about grinding, clenching, soreness, headaches, and changes you have noticed.
- Checking your teeth and bite: We look for wear, sensitivity, damaged areas, and how your teeth come together.
- Planning the appliance: If a dental guard is recommended, we gather the information needed to have an appropriate appliance made.
- Checking the fit: Once the guard is ready, we check how it fits and explain how to wear, clean, and store it.
The exact process may differ based on the type of dental guard that is recommended for you.
Dental Guard Visits With Comfort and Clear Expectations
We want appointments to feel calm and easy to follow. Music and TVs in our operatories help create a more relaxed setting while you are being evaluated or fitted for a dental guard.
We also review expected fees before treatment begins. This gives you a clearer understanding of the cost involved and an opportunity to ask questions before deciding whether to move forward.
How Much Does a Dental Guard Cost?
The cost of a dental guard can vary depending on the type of appliance, materials used, and the level of customization involved.
After your evaluation, we can provide an estimate based on the guard recommended for your needs. Insurance coverage varies by plan. Some policies may provide benefits when a dental guard is prescribed for a dental reason, while others may limit or exclude coverage.
Find Out Whether a Dental Guard Could Help Protect Your Teeth
If you have been searching for a dental guard near me because of grinding, clenching, or signs of tooth wear, schedule an evaluation with our team. We can examine your teeth, discuss what you have noticed, and explain whether a dental guard may be appropriate for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
A dental guard mainly protects the teeth from grinding-related contact and wear. It may not stop the grinding habit itself, so ongoing symptoms may still need further evaluation.
Yes, they can differ in fit, material, and how they are selected. A professionally fitted guard is recommended after a dental evaluation, while store-bought products are designed for more general use.
There is no fixed lifespan. Grinding intensity, guard material, cleaning habits, and fit can all affect how long it remains usable. Bring the guard to dental visits so its condition can be checked.
It may help some people when those symptoms are related to grinding or clenching. Because jaw soreness and headaches can have other causes, an evaluation is important before assuming a guard will relieve them.
Follow the cleaning instructions provided for your guard, allow it to dry as directed, and store it in its case. To help maintain its fit, keep the guard away from hot water and other heat sources.
