Eau Claire

Night Guards

What are

Night Guards?

Night guards in Eau Claire are dental devices that are designed to protect your teeth while you sleep. They are custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly, providing a barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This is particularly useful for people who grind their teeth (bruxism) or suffer from conditions like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or sleep apnea. Night guards are usually made from durable materials such as acrylic or hard plastic, ensuring they can withstand the pressure exerted by your jaw during sleep. At Shook Family Dental, Dr. Erin Tollefson and Dr. Joe Bartlett are experienced in creating night guards that offer both comfort and protection.

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The Benefits Of

Night Guards

Relief from TMJ Symptoms
Eau Claire Night guards can provide significant relief for those suffering from TMJ. By preventing nighttime grinding and clenching, they can reduce the strain on the temporomandibular joint, alleviating symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty opening and closing the mouth. Over time, this can lead to improved quality of life and reduced need for pain medication.

‍Protection Against Tooth Damage
‍Teeth grinding and clenching can lead to significant tooth damage over time, including cracks, fractures, and worn-down enamel. Night guards provide a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, helping to prevent this damage. This can save you from costly restorative procedures in the future and preserve the health and appearance of your teeth.

‍Improved Sleep Quality
‍Many people who use night guards report improved sleep quality. Conditions like sleep apnea and bruxism can cause frequent awakenings and disrupt the sleep cycle, leading to daytime fatigue and other health issues. By addressing these conditions, night guards can contribute to more restful, uninterrupted sleep.

The Night Guard Treatment Process

Step 1

Consultation and Examination

The first step towards getting a night guard is a comprehensive dental examination. Our Eau Claire dentists will carefully examine your teeth, gums, and jaw to determine whether a night guard is the right solution for you. They will look for signs of teeth grinding, such as worn-down teeth or a misaligned bite. They will also ask about any symptoms you might be experiencing, such as jaw pain, headaches, or disturbed sleep. This step is crucial to ensure that a night guard will address your issues and not exacerbate any underlying conditions.

Step 2

Taking Impressions

Once it's determined that a night guard is the appropriate treatment, the next step is to take impressions of your teeth. This involves placing a soft material in your mouth that hardens to create an exact mold of your teeth. This mold is then sent to a dental lab, where your custom night guard will be created. The goal is to ensure a perfect fit, which is vital for effectiveness and comfort.

Step 3

Fitting and Adjustments

The final step is the fitting of your custom night guard. Once it arrives from the dental lab, you'll come back to Shook Family Dental for a fitting. Dr. Tollefson or Dr. Bartlett will check to ensure the night guard fits properly and comfortably. They will make any necessary adjustments and provide instructions on how to care for your night guard. Regular follow-ups may be scheduled to monitor your progress and make any further adjustments if needed.