General & Preventive
Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, often without realizing it. At Farah Dentistry in Titusville, we help you recognize the signs and, when it makes sense, fit a custom night guard that cushions your teeth and jaw while you rest.
Bruxism means grinding or clenching the teeth, usually without being aware of it. It can happen during the day, but many people do it at night while they sleep, which is why a partner or a dentist is often the first to notice.
Common signs include a sore or tired jaw on waking, worn or flattened teeth, chipped edges, sensitivity and morning headaches. Over time, the repeated force can wear enamel and strain the muscles and joints of the jaw.
A night guard is a thin, removable appliance that sits over your teeth. It acts as a cushion, absorbing much of the grinding force so that it is not transferred directly to your enamel and jaw. It does not necessarily stop the habit, but it can protect your teeth and reduce the strain that leads to discomfort.
A custom night guard is made from an impression of your own teeth, so it fits closely and comfortably. Because it is shaped to your bite, it tends to stay in place and is easier to wear night after night. Farah Dentistry offers personalized custom night guards and will tailor the design to your needs.
Over-the-counter guards are less tailored. They can be shaped to a limited degree and may offer temporary relief, but they are often bulkier and less precise. If you are considering one, we are happy to advise on how to use it safely.
For some people, grinding and clenching contribute to discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), where the jaw meets the skull. A guard designed with the jaw joint in mind may help by reducing pressure on the joint while you sleep. Your dentist will assess whether this approach is appropriate for you or whether further evaluation is a better first step.
The most important qualities are fit and comfort, a durable material that holds up to grinding, and a design that is simple to clean. A guard you find comfortable is a guard you will actually wear, which is what makes the difference.
Considering Night Guards for Grinding?
Start with a relaxed conversation about your goals and options.
Benefits
A guard helps prevent the wear, flattening and chipping that repeated grinding can cause.
By cushioning the bite, a guard can relieve pressure on the jaw muscles and the discomfort that comes with it.
For headaches linked to clenching overnight, many people find a guard helps them wake more comfortably.
Reducing the effects of grinding can mean fewer disturbances and better rest, for you and sometimes your partner.
Is it right for you?
Every mouth is different. Your exam is where we confirm the right option for you.
What to expect
Your dentist looks for signs of wear, checks your jaw and bite, and talks with you about symptoms and sleep.
If a custom guard is right for you, we take an impression of your teeth so the guard can be made to fit.
At a follow-up visit, we check the fit and comfort and make any small adjustments to your bite.
We show you how to clean and store your guard and check it at your regular visits for wear.
Cost & insurance
Every plan and every mouth is different, so we confirm your coverage and explain your estimated portion before treatment begins. When you schedule, have your insurance details ready and we’ll verify eligibility for you.
Delta Dental PPO · DHA (Dental Health Alliance) Plans · Cigna Dental Plans · GEHA. We file all PPO plans as a courtesy.
Questions
The most common clues are a sore jaw or headache on waking, teeth that look worn or flattened, and a partner hearing grinding at night. Your dentist can often see signs of grinding during a routine exam.
A custom guard usually fits more closely and comfortably because it is made from an impression of your own teeth. Over-the-counter guards can give temporary relief but are less precise and often bulkier.
A night guard does not always stop the habit itself. Its main purpose is to protect your teeth and reduce the strain on your jaw while the grinding or clenching happens.
Rinse it after each use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and cool water, and let it dry before storing it in its case. Avoid hot water, which can change its shape.
Coverage varies by plan. Our team can check your benefits with Delta Dental PPO, DHA, Cigna, GEHA or other PPO plans, and CareCredit and Cherry financing are also available. Call (321) 269-3802 to ask.
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Your visit
Book a visit and we’ll examine, explain your options clearly, and help you choose what’s right for you, with no pressure.