Night Guards

PROTECTION WHEN YOU SLEEP

It is estimated that approximately 20% of adults suffer with nonfunctional grinding or clenching of teeth, known as “bruxism”. This condition is unusual because many people who suffer from it are not even aware that it is happening! Clenching or grinding can occur during the day or night and can lead to the following symptoms:

• Pain or tension in the jaw muscles upon awakening

• Teeth that are sensitive to biting pressure, mostly in the morning

• Unusual wearing down of the teeth

People who suffer with bruxism often experience some or all of the above symptoms or have had someone mention that they grind or clench their teeth at night. A custom-made occlusal “night” guard can help lessen the negative effects of clenching or grinding on your teeth.

In addition to grinding the teeth, another common sleep disruption is snoring. Snoring is a real problem, not only for the person who snores, but also for the partner and other family members who live with the snorer; however, there is a dentist-prescribed solution for a more restful night’s sleep. Dr. Hanson can fit you with a custom device that has been shown to reduce or even prevent the disruptive, unhealthy effects of snoring and sleep apnea (a common disorder in which you have one or more pauses in breathing or shallow breaths while you sleep).

If your sleep is disrupted by you or your partner snoring or grinding his or her teeth, Dr.  Hanson can help you have a more restful night’s sleep!