Clenching and grinding your teeth can lead to problems such as having teeth that are unattractive, flat, sensitive, with a high risk of becoming loose, and breaking into pieces. Aside from that, excess grinding can cause muscle tenderness and spasms—leading to headaches and neck aches. One of the best solutions for clenching and grinding teeth is to use a night guard. 

A night guard is a thin transparent device worn over the surface of the teeth while you sleep. It helps you by preventing your top and bottom teeth from touching, thus, preventing them from grinding. Using a night guard can help prevent these symptoms from occurring or at least prevent them from worsening. Night guards can be bought over the counter or on the internet. However, the best night guards are those that are custom-molded to your teeth to provide the best fit like the ones we offer here at Village Dental. 

If you wear a night guard to prevent teeth grinding, it is crucial to keep it clean. Here are a few tips that can help you take care of your night guards: 

• Immediately rinse your night guard when you wake up. Rinse it with warm water to remove any debris and loosen plaque that might have built up overnight. 

• Give your night guard light brushing with your toothbrush. You can use your regular toothbrush or purchase a specialized brush for night guards. Avoid using toothpaste because they are abrasive and can scratch or wear your night guard out. A little bit of warm water on your toothbrush is enough.

• Never store your night guard if it’s still wet because this will cause rapid bacterial growth. Choose a clean, flat surface and allow the air to dry out your night guard between 15 to 30 minutes. Remember to do this as soon as you wake up so you can store your night guard before you head out for the day.

• When storing your night guard, remember to use its case. Storing it in your bathroom without its case can cause it to warp because of the humidity. Also, remember to wash the case every few days with dish soap but do not use a dishwasher to clean it. The high temperature will most likely warp or melt the case. Moreover, night guard cases can wear out over time, and you’ll need new ones every 6-12 months. 

You can finally end the clenching and grinding of your teeth when you sleep with our Mouth Guards and Night Guards for Children and Adults in Elk Grove Village, IL. Schedule an appointment with us at Village Dental and avail of custom night guards that can perfectly fit you. We are located at 958 Elk Grove Town Center, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007.