Custom Night Guards in Philadelphia
Most people who grind their teeth do not know they are doing it. It happens during sleep, and by the time patients notice something is wrong, the damage has already started. A custom night guard stops the grinding before it becomes a bigger problem.
Who Needs a Night Guard?
Grinding and clenching, clinically called bruxism, is more common than most people realize. You may need a night guard if you experience any of the following:
- Jaw soreness or stiffness in the morning
- Frequent headaches, especially upon waking
- Tooth sensitivity that has gotten worse over time
- Teeth that look flatter or shorter than they used to
- Cracked, chipped, or worn enamel
- Crowns or fillings that keep failing
- A partner who has told you that you grind your teeth at night
Some patients have no symptoms at all. Dr. Razavi checks for wear patterns during every exam and will let you know if she sees signs of grinding before you feel them.
What Happens If Grinding Goes Untreated?
Left untreated, bruxism wears down enamel that cannot grow back, cracks teeth, and shortens the lifespan of crowns and fillings significantly. Over time the pressure transfers to the jaw joint, leading to chronic jaw pain, facial tension, and in some cases a TMJ disorder that requires its own treatment.
A night guard is a simple intervention that prevents all of it. Patients with significant grinding damage may also be candidates for dental crowns in Philadelphia to restore worn or cracked teeth before a night guard is fitted.
Custom Night Guard vs Over the Counter
Drugstore night guards are made to fit anyone, which means they fit no one well. A guard that does not fit precisely can shift during sleep, put uneven pressure on the teeth, and in some cases make jaw alignment worse rather than better. Patients who have tried OTC guards and found them uncomfortable or ineffective are often surprised by how different a custom guard feels.
A custom night guard fabricated from impressions of your teeth fits flush against every tooth surface. It stays in place, does not bulk up the bite unevenly, and does not interfere with breathing. It is also significantly more durable. Most custom guards last three to five years or longer depending on how severe the grinding is. For anyone researching night guard Philadelphia options, the difference between a custom and drugstore guard is immediate once you try both.
What to Expect at Razavi Dental
Getting a night guard at Razavi Dental takes two appointments.
1
Consultation and Impressions
At your first appointment Dr. Razavi evaluates your teeth for signs of grinding and wear. If a night guard is appropriate, digital impressions are taken of your teeth. The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where your guard is custom fabricated.
2
Fit Appointment
At your second appointment, typically one to two weeks later, the night guard is checked for fit and adjusted as needed. Most patients leave wearing it comfortably the same night.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a night guard last?
Most custom night guards last three to five years. Patients with severe grinding may wear through one faster. Dr. Razavi monitors the guard at your regular exams and will let you know when it needs to be replaced.
Can I wear a night guard if I have veneers or crowns?
Yes. A night guard is especially important if you have porcelain veneers or crowns because grinding is one of the fastest ways to shorten their lifespan. The guard protects the restorations the same way it protects natural enamel. Learn more about porcelain veneers in Philadelphia at Razavi Dental.
Does insurance cover night guards?
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost when a night guard is prescribed for bruxism. Coverage varies by plan. Razavi Dental will verify your benefits before treatment so there are no surprises.
To learn more about night guard Philadelphia pricing and coverage, contact Razavi Dental directly.
Protect Your Teeth While You Sleep
If you are looking for a night guard Philadelphia dentist, Razavi Dental provides custom-fitted guards in Center City. Schedule a consultation online or call (215) 996-7030.