21
Oct
How Can A Night Guard Help Me While Sleeping?
Teeth grinding and jaw clenching—known as bruxism—can seriously affect your smile and overall comfort. Over time, these habits may lead to worn enamel, headaches, jaw pain, and even the development of TMJ disorders. Fortunately, custom dental night guards provide a simple yet highly effective way to protect your teeth and ease the strain on your jaw.
At Bright Dental – Brianna Rafetto D.M.D., P.A. in Middletown, DE, Dr. Brianna Rafetto proudly serves patients from Clayton and surrounding areas by offering professionally made night guards.
What is a dental night guard, and how does it work?
A dental night guard is a custom-made oral appliance that fits over your teeth and is usually worn while sleeping. Its goal is to protect the upper and lower teeth from harm by forming a barrier against clenching and grinding. By cushioning the bite, a night guard reduces pressure on the teeth, jaw joints, and surrounding muscles. This not only prevents tooth wear but also helps ease jaw discomfort commonly linked to TMJ disorders.
How do I know if I need a night guard?
If you wake up with sore jaw muscles, frequent headaches, or notice that your teeth look flat or chipped, you may be grinding your teeth at night. Loved ones might even tell you they hear grinding sounds while you sleep. Other signs include tooth sensitivity or difficulty opening your mouth comfortably. If these symptoms sound familiar, a dental exam at our office can confirm whether a night guard would help protect your smile.
Can a night guard help with TMJ disorder symptoms?
Yes. TMJ disorders often develop from overworked jaw joints and muscles due to teeth grinding or clenching. A night guard relieves this pressure by repositioning your bite slightly and reducing stress on the temporomandibular joint. Many patients experience relief from jaw pain, stiffness, and tension headaches after consistent use. While a night guard doesn’t cure TMJ disorders, it can significantly ease symptoms and improve quality of life.
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What’s the difference between a custom night guard and one from the store?
Over-the-counter night guards may be cheaper, but they are often bulky, uncomfortable, and prone to slipping during sleep. On the other hand, custom night guards are designed by your dentist using impressions of your teeth. This ensures a precise, comfortable fit that won’t shift or interfere with breathing. Custom appliances are also made with durable materials designed to withstand grinding forces, making them a longer-lasting and more effective investment in your oral health.
How do I care for my dental night guard?
Taking care of your night guard is simple. Rinse it with cool water after each use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush (without toothpaste, which can be abrasive), and let it air dry completely before storing it in its case. Once a week, you can soak it in a denture cleaner or a non-alcoholic mouthwash to keep it fresh. Be sure to bring your guard to dental checkups so Dr. Rafetto can examine it for signs of wear and ensure it’s still functioning properly.
Protect Your Smile with us
Living with bruxism or TMJ-related discomfort doesn’t have to be your norm. A custom night guard from Bright Dental – Brianna Rafetto D.M.D., P.A. in Middletown, DE, can provide the relief and protection you need for healthier teeth and a more comfortable jaw. Dr. Brianna Rafetto and her team are here to help if you’re in Clayton or the surrounding communities.
Call (302) 391-6222 today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward protecting your smile.
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Brianna Rafetto, DMD
Dr. Brianna Rafetto is a dedicated and compassionate dentist with a rich background in dentistry. Born in Hockessin, DE, and raised in Kennett Square, PA, she has deep roots in the Delaware dental community. Dr. Rafetto earned her Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry and completed a General Practice Dental Residency at Christiana Care’s Wilmington Hospital. Her expertise spans complex oral surgery, advanced prosthodontics, and cosmetic restorative treatments. As a trusted member of the Bright Dental family, Dr. Rafetto is committed to providing honest, gentle, and high-quality care to all her patients.
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600 N Broad St STE 7, Middletown, DE 19709Office Hours
Monday:
8.00 AM –
5.00 PM
Tuesday:
10.00 AM –
7.00 PM
Wednesday:
8.00 AM –
5.00 PM
Thursday:
8.00 AM –
5.00 PM
Friday:
Closed
Saturday:
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Sunday:
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