Regina Lakeview Dental Centre
Night Guards in Regina
When is Fabrication of a Nightguard (Bruxism Appliance) Indicated?
Your dentist will typically recommend a nightguard be fabricated for the following reasons:
To help protect tooth structure when there is evidence that you grind or clench your teeth at night or during the day.
To help provide some symptom relief of sore muscles in those patients who grind or clench their teeth at night.
To protect extensive dental treatment from parafunction.
What Happens with This Procedure?
The procedure typically involves two appointments. At the first appointment the dentist and dental assistant will take a digital scan or an impression of your teeth and occlusion (bite). At the second appointment, which is typically two weeks later the nightguard will be delivered. Small adjustments will be made as indicated to the fit and occlusion. You may need to be seen for subsequent appointments to make further adjustments.
What are my Other Treatment Options?
- No Treatment
What are the risks of treatment?
Like all dental procedures, fabrication of a nightguard comes with some level of risk. When you choose to have this treatment, you are consenting to the following risks:
- Discomfort of the teeth, muscle discomfort, dry-mouth. These may resolve or reduce with time, or they may continue.
- The nightguard will not prevent the harmful occlusal habits but is designed to provide a protective layer to minimize damage to the tooth structure.
- A true diagnosis cannot be made until treatment is provided and if necessary, our treatment recommendation can change (referral, discontinuing the nightguard, changing the nightguard design, etc.)
- You may experience changes to the way your bite fits together. This may require further treatment with orthodontics or restorative treatment for resolution.
How do I take care of my Nightguard?
Soften the nightguard under warm tap water prior to placement. This allows the nightguard to loosen slightly and seat properly.
- Never allow the nightguard to sit near/in high temperatures. This can distort the nightguard.
- Clean your nightguard at least once daily. Immediately after removal, use warm water and soap or a denture tablet to gently remove saliva and debris from the appliance. Never use vinegar or bleach.
- Take your nightguard out and store dry during the day. This prevents the growth of bacteria and fungus.
- See your dentist regularly. Contact your dentist if you notice any changes in your symptoms.
- Removal of the appliance is best accomplished by using equal pressure on both sides of the mouth. Swishing with hot water can help with removal.
- Keep your nightguard out of reach from pets and small children.
A Comprehensive General Dental Practice Serving Regina Since 1975