Night Guards

A night guard is a custom-fit oral appliance worn while you sleep to prevent teeth grinding and clenching, also known as bruxism. Bruxism is an oral habit that can cause severe damage to your teeth over time. It can lead to tooth wear, chipped or broken teeth, and even tooth loss. It can also result in jaw pain, headaches, and other painful symptoms.

At J. Whitley Wills, DDS, we offer custom-made night guards to protect your teeth from the effects of bruxism. Our dentist can examine your mouth to determine if a night guard is right for you. If so, we will take impressions of your teeth to create a personalized device for you to wear at night.

Types of Night Guards

Soft Night Guards

These are made from soft, flexible materials, such as silicone. Soft night guards are comfortable to wear and are often used for mild cases of teeth grinding. However, they may wear out quicker compared to harder materials.

Hard Night Guards

Hard night guards are made from rigid materials like acrylic. They provide a durable barrier against teeth grinding and are suitable for moderate to severe cases of bruxism. However, they may be less comfortable initially and can take some time to get used to.

Dual Laminate Night Guards

These night guards combine soft and hard materials, typically with a soft inner layer for comfort and a hard outer layer for durability. Dual laminate night guards are often recommended for moderate bruxism.

Custom-Made Night Guards

Custom night guards are created by our dentist in Memphis, TN, to fit the unique contours of a patient's mouth. They provide the best fit, comfort, and protection, making them highly effective for managing bruxism or preventing teeth grinding-related issues.

The Benefits of Wearing a Night Guard

Improved Sleep

If you suffer from bruxism, you may find it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Grinding your teeth can disrupt sleep and cause other problems, such as sleep apnea. Wearing a night guard can help reduce the severity of your symptoms and help you sleep better.

Reduced Jaw Pain

Many people who grind their teeth experience jaw pain. This pain can be severe enough to make it difficult to eat and speak. A night guard in Memphis, TN, can help to relieve this pain by cushioning your jaw and preventing it from clenching and grinding.

Tooth Damage Prevention

Teeth grinding can wear down your tooth enamel and even cause cracks and chips. Over time, this can lead to tooth decay and other oral health problems. Wearing a night guard can help prevent tooth damage by keeping your teeth separated and protecting them from the force of grinding.

To learn more about how night guards can benefit you, visit J. Whitley Wills, DDS, at 59 S Idlewild St., Memphis, TN 38104, or call (901) 726-9525.