Visit Chicago kiDDS – Your Teeth Grinding Dentist in Palos Park, IL
Individuals who have damaged teeth may have suffered a dental injury of some kind in their lives, have a misaligned bite, tooth decay, etc. Issues like bruxism and TMJ disorders can also cause damage to teeth, usually by wearing them down, and causing cracks or chips. Additionally, they can lead to severe jaw pain, headaches, and other painful symptoms.
There are a number of different causes of these disorders, such as stress, misaligned bite, sleep apnea, etc. However, one common method for treating bruxism and TMJ disorders, regardless of the cause, is wearing a custom mouthguard at night while you sleep.
What Are Mouthguards
Mouthguards are a type of dental appliance that is used to protect teeth from injury in specific situations, such as sports and other activities. However, mouthguards are also used to protect teeth against damage caused by issues like bruxism and TMJ.
Mouthguards that are worn at night, also known as night-guards, protect teeth from the damage caused when they grind against each other. Wearing a custom mouthguard to bed can help prevent bruxism and jaw clenching, as well as help treat sleep apnea in some cases.
Types of Mouthguards
If your child is involved in sports or other activities, our pediatric dentist can help recommend the type of mouthguard that will best suit their needs. In cases where your child suffers from bruxism or a TMJ disorder, we can help prescribe a custom mouthguard that will allow them to sleep comfortably without damaging their teeth.
Below is a list of the three most popular types of mouthguards:
- Ready-Made Mouthguards – These are store bought options that are not customized to each individual.
- Mouth-Adapted Guards – These are also known as ‘boil-and-bite’ mouthguards, and are made of a material that can be softened in hot water and then inserted by the patient so the guard forms to their teeth.
- Custom Mouthguards – Customer mouthguards are the most comfortable option available, and they are created specifically to fit your child’s mouth.
It is important when choosing a mouthguard to focus on comfort and effectiveness. If a mouthguard is not comfortable, there is little chance your child will be willing to wear it. The team at Chicago kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry assists you in choosing the most appropriate mouthguard for your child’s needs, one that allows for easy breathing and also protects their teeth.
If you opt for a custom mouthguard, you can rest assured the final product will fit properly, comfortably, not reduce airflow, or harm your child’s teeth.
Visit Us for Bruxism Dental Services in Palos Park, IL
If you have been searching for bruxism treatment in Palos Park, Illinois, Chicago kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry is here to offer you the dental care options you need.
We provide young patients with custom mouthguards that help protect their smiles for years to come. If your child is suffering from bruxism, TMJ, or even simply plays sports, reach out to our team and allow the dental professionals at Chicago kiDDS to prescribe an appropriate mouthguard option. When it comes to your child’s dental health, our priority is making sure they receive the dental treatment they need and deserve.
Schedule an appointment at our dental office when you call (708) 448-6700 today.