If you often wake up with jaw pain, earaches, or headaches, or if you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, you may have a common condition called bruxism. Many people do not even know that they grind their teeth, as it often occurs when one is sleeping. If not corrected, bruxism can lead to broken teeth, cracked teeth, or even tooth loss, and the American Dental Association offers an overview of teeth grinding if you want to read more.
At Smiles of Fort Myers, our dentists can check for signs of grinding and recommend a custom nightguard, an easy, non-invasive treatment that helps prevent the wear and damage teeth-grinding causes over time.
Signs You May Be Grinding Your Teeth
Because grinding often happens during sleep, these signs are often the first clue.
Jaw Pain
Waking up with a sore or tired jaw.
Earaches
Ear discomfort that has no other clear cause.
Headaches
Headaches, especially on waking.
Clenching or Grinding
Noticing yourself clenching or grinding your teeth.
How a Nightguard Works
Nightguards are an easy way to prevent the wear and damage that teeth-grinding causes over time. Custom-made by your dentist from soft material to fit your teeth, a nightguard is inserted over your top or bottom arch and prevents contact with the opposing teeth.
Exam
Your dentist checks your teeth for signs of wear from grinding.
Custom Fit
A nightguard is made from soft material to fit your teeth.
Protection at Night
It sits over your top or bottom arch and prevents contact with the opposing teeth.
Waking up with jaw pain or headaches? Ask our team about a nightguard.
Nightguards, Sports Mouthguards, and Jaw Care
A nightguard is designed for grinding while you sleep, while a sports mouthguard protects your teeth from impact during physical activity. If jaw pain or bite problems continue, our prosthodontic care page explains how we approach jaw and bite concerns, and grinding that has already damaged a tooth may call for a crown.
Nightguard Cost and Financing in Fort Myers
The cost of a nightguard depends on the type your dentist recommends, so our team will go over your options at your visit. We accept most insurance plans, though coverage varies from plan to plan, and we offer 0% APR financing along with our in-house Smile Program membership plan for patients without insurance. You can find more details on our financial information page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nightguards in Fort Myers
Schedule Your Visit at Smiles of Fort Myers
If you are ready to talk through your options with our dentists, we would be glad to check for signs of grinding and walk you through your nightguard options. Contact our office to schedule your visit.
We speak English and Spanish. Se habla español.
