How to Clean Night Guard?

Drs. James and Brian Tasto of Torrey Hills Dental in San Diego, CA can help patients who have other conditions that impact their smiles. While the top concerns are often periodontal disease and tooth decay, these are not the only problems that can occur with time and cause damage to the smile. Conditions like bruxism, which results in unwanted wear and tear on the teeth and dental restorations, can be damaging and difficult to deal with. With a proper diagnosis of bruxism, patients of the San Diego, CA community can work with their dentist to obtain a specialized mouth guard, or “nightguard,” to release tension from clenching and grinding and protect the teeth and restorations currently in the smile. In addition to providing nightguards, our team can also educate patients on how to clean and care for them to make sure the nightguards last as long as possible!

What is bruxism and what does it do?

Bruxism is a dental condition in which you will unknowingly clench or grind your teeth. If you have bruxism, you will often find that you unconsciously clench and grind your teeth when awake or asleep. People who have sleep bruxism may not be aware of it until their dentist brings up their concerns.

How do I know if I have a condition like bruxism?

Some of the more common signs and symptoms of bruxism may include:

• Teeth grinding and clenching, loud enough to awaken your sleep partner
• Teething pain in infants
• Abnormal bite or jaw pain
• Tired or tight jaw muscles
• Earache
• Headache
• Discomfort in other areas of the face
• Damage to teeth, restorations, crowns, or tooth enamel
• Increased sensitivity of teeth

Why might I need an oral nightguard?

An oral nightguard is a device worn over the teeth to protect them from grinding or clenching during sleep. Clenching and grinding are often associated with conditions such as bruxism or temporomandibular joint disorder. Without protecting the smile with a nightguard, you may be putting your smile at risk of damage. In fact, some dentists can diagnose bruxism with a physical evaluation alone due to the noticeable wearing of the natural teeth and breakage of dental restorations that might be in place, including dental crowns and porcelain veneers. In situations such as this, Drs. James and Brian Tasto of Torrey Hills Dental may recommend the use of a nightguard.

How to clean your nightguard?

It is vital that you take care of your nightguard to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. Though they can always be replaced, keeping the nightguard clean and protecting it when not in use can ensure you get the most out of your investment. Drs. James and Brian Tasto of Torrey Hills Dental offer some tips on how to clean and care for your nightguard at home:

• Store your nightguard in a clean, dry place when not in use.
• Rinse your nightguard with warm water before each use.
• Clean your nightguard with toothpaste and a toothbrush at least once a week.
• Inspect your nightguard regularly for any signs of wear or damage.
• Replace your nightguard if it becomes damaged or worn out.

Take care of your nightguard to extend longevity

Following these tips will assist you in getting the most out of your nightguard and protect your teeth from damage. If you have any questions about taking care of your nightguard, please consult with Drs. James and Brian Tasto of Torrey Hills Dental to discuss your needs. The office is located at 4765 Carmel Mountain Road, Suite #101, and is open to new patients in and around the community of San Diego, CA. The number to reach our front office team and schedule a consultation visit is (858) 523-1330.