If you have frequent headaches, earaches, sensitive teeth or fatigued jaw muscles, you may be in the habit of clenching or grinding your teeth. The evidence of this can usually be seen as wear areas on the teeth or cracks caused by the heavy pressure.

Bruxism, or grinding of the teeth, can also worsen the effects of periodontal disease, cause bite problems and pain or misalignment of the jaw joint (TMJ). Bruxism can also cause esthetic concerns by wearing down the teeth and changing your smile. Staining can also occur in the worn areas, which gives the smile a dull and aged appearance.
 
The occlusal guard will interrupt the grinding process. The appliance may not completely break the habit, but it will stop further damage to the teeth, alleviate pain and allow for a more restful sleep.

An occlusal guard (sometimes called a night guard) is made of plastic and most often fits over the upper teeth. Many people wear the appliance at night when they are most likely to clench or grind their teeth. Two appointments are needed to make an occlusal guard.

The first appointment, Dr. Berkovich will take impressions of your teeth, then send the impressions to a lab, where the occlusal guard is fabricated. During the second appointment, she will adjust the occlusal guard, making sure that the appliance fits correctly and is comfortable to wear. Dr. Berkovich will provide you with instructions on how to wear and care for the new appliance.

If you are experiencing any if the above symptoms, and you are interested in an occlusal guard, please call our office today. We will be happy to set up an appointment to evaluate your needs.

Angela Berkovich - cosmetic and restorative dentistry

1348 E. Hillsboro Blvd., Ste. A
Deerfield Beach, FL 33441
954-427-3000

Serving Deerfield Beach and the surrounding areas including Little Harbor on the Hillsboro, The Cove, Carver Heights, Arlington Park, Barwal, Coral Manor, College Park, Broward Heights, Park Haven, Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Floresta Estates, Eastway Park, Lighthouse Point, Shorewood, Royal Oak Hills, Boca Raton, Floresta, Paradise Palms, Broward County and Palm Beach County. We are conveniently located on East Hillsboro Boulevard just east of Federal Highway close to Ocean Boulevard and the Atlantic Ocean.

Smile makeover • teeth whitening • porcelain veneers for crooked or stained teeth • natural-looking fillings, crowns & bridges • precision-fit dentures & partials • dental implants - a permanent alternative to missing teeth & loose dentures • wisdom teeth extractions • root canal therapy • general dentist • children's dentist • sedation dentistry