11/21/2025
Waking up with jaw soreness or headaches? 😣 You might be grinding your teeth in your sleep — and many people don’t even realize it’s happening 😬
Nightguards (also called occlusal guards or bite splints) act as a protective cushion for your teeth while you rest, helping prevent clenching damage, chipped teeth, shifting, and inflamed gums 😌✨
Here’s a little known fact: most nightguards need to be replaced about every three years because regular grinding gradually wears down the material, reducing how well it protects your teeth over time 🦷⌛️
Dr. Singletary reminds patients that an effective nightguard should be made of hard processed acrylic with a smooth, flat surface. This allows your jaw to move freely without catching on the guard. Softer, over-the-counter guards can actually encourage more clenching and chewing, making a custom-made option the healthier long-term choice 👍😬
At North Raleigh Periodontics and Implant Center, we create custom-fit guards using a quick digital scan, then adjust the fit to ensure maximum comfort and protection before you take it home 🦷💙
Ready to protect your smile and sleep easier? Tap the link in our bio to learn more and schedule a visit today 📲