4444 NE Sunset Blvd, Suite 3 Renton, WA 98059 (425) 738-8476

Due to the COVID-19/coronavirus pandemic and current restrictions imposed by Governor Inslee and the State of Washington Department of Health, our office will be temporarily closed for all but emergency dental care. This closure is expected to last until May 18th, at which time we expect to resume regular business hours and all patient care. If you are experiencing a dental emergency requiring immediate attention, you may contact Dr. Kay at (206) 915-8020. Thank you for your support and understanding during this challenging time.

Night Mouthguard

If your partner often complains of your loud snoring, or if you often wake up with aching facial muscles, jaw and teeth, you may be suffering from the effects of bruxism.

Bruxism or teeth grinding is a common and painful condition that affects about 15 percent of American adults. Fortunately, at Kevin Kay DDS Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer several treatment options for bruxism, including night mouthguards.

Causes and Symptoms of Bruxism

The effects of bruxism can be manifested in many ways. Some of the most common symptoms include:

•	Pain in the jaw and jaw joint.
•	Headaches and migraines in the morning.
•	Fractures and chipped teeth and increased tooth sensitivity.
•	Earaches.
•	Discomfort and stiffness of facial muscles.

Although it is not known exactly why bruxism occurs, there may be several contributing factors, including stress at home, school, or work, insomnia, crooked teeth, and a misaligned bite.

What are Night Mouthguards

Night mouthguards are dental appliances that are worn during the night when you are sleeping. Their function is to prevent the surfaces of the opposing teeth from grinding together and, in the process, damaging the enamel of your teeth or hurting your jaw. They do this by providing a cushion to the muscles in your jaw and distributing the force of your bite throughout the appliance so that high pressure is not exerted on one part of the mouth.

These mouthguards are available over-the-counter as well as custom-fitted at Kevin Kay DDS Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. However, store-bought night guards do not fit well, nor are they comfortable and may not be effective in fighting the symptoms of bruxism.

Night mouthguards custom-made at our office provide superior quality, durability, and fit as they are created based on the mold of your mouth. These mouthguards may be more expensive than over-the-counter ones, but they are much more effective.

Types of Night Mouthguards

There are three types of night mouthguards that may be prescribed to you:

•	Soft Night Mouthguard: Soft night mouthguards may be prescribed if you suffer from a mild case of teeth grinding. Many patients do not suffer from bruxism every single night or do not clench their jaw with much force. For them, soft mouthguards are sufficient. These mouthguards are also softer than any other type of night mouthguard and quite flexible. Hence, they are easier for patients to get used to.
•	Dual Laminate Night Mouthguard: This mouthguard is usually prescribed to people with severe cases of bruxism. A dual laminate mouthguard is hard on the outside but soft on the inside, so it promises greater protection and is more long-lasting. However, since it is thicker than soft mouthguards, it may feel bulky in the mouth and is a bit harder to adjust to.
•	Acrylic Night Mouthguard: These mouthguards are made of rigid acrylic material and are the most durable kind of night guards. These are designed for people who suffer from persistent and heavy bruxism as well as temporomandibular disorders. These night guards are very rigid, so they are not as comfortable as the other types of mouthguards.

If you suspect that you suffer from teeth grinding during sleep, call us now at (425) 738-8476, and we will determine what type of mouth nightguard or bruxism treatment suits you the best.

Kevin Kay DDS Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Dr. Kevin Kay

(425) 738-8476

4444 NE Sunset Blvd, Suite 3
Renton, WA 98059

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