Night protection effectively prevents tooth damage caused by grinding and clamping, protecting the teeth from further wear and tear and relieving the jaw joint and chewing muscles. A night guard is a custom-made plastic device that protects teeth from grinding, clamping, and potential tooth damage. It also relieves pain in the jaw joints, muscles and head by reducing unnecessary pressure. In fact, night protection may be the solution to multiple oral health problems, especially for those who have a tight, deep bite or improper contact with their teeth.

Why you should consider night protection

It's essential to address oral health issues as soon as symptoms appear. Delayed treatment leads to an intensification of symptoms and an increase in treatment complexity and costs. Disruptions in the chewing function, such as teeth grinding, can cause headaches, muscle soreness, pain in the joints of the face and jaw, and tooth wear over time. Many of our patients who grind their teeth often have a tight, deep bite with improper contact. These misalignments can be effectively addressed with Invisalign treatment, as the alignment of the teeth improves bite functionality and relieves jaw pressure. In fact, after undergoing Invisalign, many of our patients no longer need protection against bites and believe that the Vivera retainer is a more comfortable and durable alternative for maintaining alignment.

Advantages of a night guard

Relief of the maxillary joints
Nighttime tension in the jaw muscles may radiate to the neck, shoulders, and temples, potentially causing ear discomfort. Night protection helps stabilize the jaw joint by positioning it correctly during sleep, reducing stress on the jaw.

Muscle relaxation
Excessive muscle activity at night may cause pain when chewing, yawning, or touching facial muscles. The additional height compared to the bite protection allows the chewing muscles to relax during sleep, helping to interrupt the pain cycle.

Reduced tooth wear
The outer layer of enamel protects the teeth from external stimuli, but grinding can wear them down, causing tooth sensitivity. Bite protection acts as a barrier, reduces tooth wear, protects fillings, preserves tooth length and minimizes cracks and nerve damage.

Better force distribution between the teeth
The protector is designed to prevent uneven pressure on individual teeth, which can lead to displacement. It stabilizes the bite and evenly distributes forces, protecting against improper contact. If the problem is a misaligned bite, your dentist may suggest Invisalign as a treatment to further correct the alignment.