Nightguards
Portland, OR
Bruxism (teeth grinding) can cause moderate to severe long-term damage to teeth. Constant grinding wears down the surface of the tooth, exposing the soft dentin beneath the enamel. This is why it's important to protect your teeth while you sleep by wearing a bite guard. Bruxism can even cause a root fracture below the gumline, requiring a root canal and crown to restore the damaged tooth.
Some damage that can occur includes:
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Chipped teeth
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Tooth flattening and tooth wear
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Cracked tooth enamel
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Cracked, loose or broken fillings
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Tooth loss
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Gum recession
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Tooth collapse |
Three Types of Bite Guards
Custom-fitted: These are made specifically for you by your dentist. They may be more expensive than the other versions, but because they are customized, usually offer the best fit.
Stock: These are inexpensive and come pre-formed, ready to wear. However, they often don't fit well. They can be bulky and can make breathing and talking difficult.
Boil and bite: These mouth protectors can be bought at many sporting goods stores and drugstores, and may offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. They are first softened in water (boiled), then inserted and allowed to adapt to the shape of your mouth.
The best bite guard is one that has been custom made for your mouth by your dentist. However, if you can't afford a custom-fitted one, you should still wear a stock bite guard or a boil-and-bite kind from the drugstore. Give us a call at (503) 446-2957 to learn more about your options. |
