 |
|
Nightguard Williston Park, NY Most people have no idea what happens in their mouth once they fall asleep. Jaw muscles that should be resting are clenching with surprising force. Teeth that should be still are grinding against each other. Airways that should be open are partially collapsing with every breath. Sleep is supposed to be restorative, but for many patients, it's quietly doing damage.NightguardsA nightguard is a custom-fitted oral appliance worn during sleep. Depending on the design, it can address several conditions that occur during sleep, from jaw disorders and enamel wear to snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. At Long Island Smile we fit patients with nightguards that are precisely crafted to their bite and treatment needs, not over-the-counter trays that shift around or cause discomfort. How a Nightguard WorksA nightguard creates a physical barrier or repositions the jaw in a way that protects teeth, reduces muscle strain, or opens the airway — sometimes all three, depending on the type. The appliance is made from impressions of your teeth, so it fits accurately and stays in place throughout the night. Patients typically adjust within a week or two, and many report that sleep quality improves quickly after they begin wearing one consistently. TMJ ReliefTemporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder affects the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull. This can produce pain, clicking, popping, limited jaw movement, and headaches that radiate into the neck and temples. Nightguards designed for patients with TMJ help by holding the jaw in a position that reduces pressure on the joint and gives overworked muscles a chance to relax. For patients who have been managing chronic jaw discomfort, the relief that comes from consistent nightguard use can be significant. Protection From Teeth GrindingTeeth grinding, also called bruxism, is one of the most common reasons patients are referred for a nightguard. Grinding generates forces far beyond what normal chewing produces, and over time it wears down enamel, flattens cusps, cracks restorations, and can lead to tooth sensitivity or fractures. A nightguard absorbs and distributes that force before it reaches the teeth. If we've noticed signs of teeth grinding during your exam — flattened or chipped enamel, worn biting surfaces, or jaw muscle tenderness — a nightguard may be one of the most protective investments you can make for your smile. Snoring and Sleep Apnea TreatmentNot all nightguards are protective devices — some are active treatment appliances. Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are a type of oral appliance that gently reposition the lower jaw slightly forward during sleep. This forward position helps keep the airway open by preventing the soft tissue at the back of the throat from collapsing. For patients who snore, this repositioning can reduce or eliminate the vibration that creates the sound. For patients with obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy is a clinically recognized alternative to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines, particularly for those with mild to moderate apnea or those who cannot tolerate CPAP use. We work with sleep physicians when a formal diagnosis is involved, and we fit appliances that are adjustable so treatment can be fine-tuned as needed. Is a Nightguard Right for You?If you wake up with a sore jaw, headaches, or a partner who tells you that you grind your teeth or snore loudly, these are signs worth discussing at your next appointment at Long Island Smile. Worn enamel, cracked fillings, and daytime fatigue can all point to conditions a nightguard may be able to address. We don't take a one-size-fits-all approach to sleep-related dental issues. A conversation about your symptoms and a thorough examination allow us to recommend the right type of appliance for your specific situation. Schedule a ConsultationIf jaw pain, grinding, snoring, or disrupted sleep has become part of your routine, our team can help. Contact our office at (516) 243-7473 to schedule a consultation and find out whether a custom nightguard is the right next step for your health and your smile. |
Subscribe to Our
Contact
Complete Your