Oral appliances, also known as mouthguards, are worn over the teeth to protect them from being damaged or injured. They can be effective for a variety of dental issues. For instance, oral appliances can help protect teeth from grinding while sleeping. Many people suffer from bruxism or nighttime teeth grinding. This condition can seriously damage teeth, both from the pressure of grinding as well as possibly causing the teeth to chip or crack. Wearing a mouthguard at night can prevent tooth grinding.
Similarly, mouthguards can effectively protect teeth from clenching while sleeping. Many people suffer from temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMD. This condition can lead to jaw and facial pain. A mouthguard can help protect the teeth from clenching and grinding, reducing TMD symptoms.
Types of oral appliances
- Retainers
- Custom oral appliances
- Mouthpieces (Sports Mouthguard)
- Nightguards
What conditions can be treated with oral appliances?
Oral appliances can be used for a variety of conditions. Some patients use them just for nighttime teeth grinding, while others have issues that require them to wear an appliance all the time. For instance, people with sleep apnea will rely on their oral appliances to sleep soundly through the night, while people with TMJ disorders will use their appliances to treat their symptoms.
How are oral appliances fitted?
At-home oral appliances are custom-fit to the patient. They are typically more affordable than traditional orthodontic products. One thing to keep in mind is that they are not as effective as traditional braces.
The dentist will take impressions of the patient’s teeth, which will be used to create a custom-fit oral appliance. This ensures that the patient receives the exact fit that they require. The patient will then need to wear the oral appliance for 1-2 hours per day.
How long do oral appliances last?
With proper care, dental appliances can last for years. However, because oral appliances are subject to regular wear and tear, they will eventually need to be repaired or replaced.
If your oral appliance breaks or becomes damaged, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. If your oral appliance has worn out, you may be able to replace it with a less expensive version.
To find out more about the dental services offered at Helix Dental, call (973)-377-8668 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 15 James Street, Florham Park, NJ, 07932.
