Custom Night Guards and Snore Appliances in Glendale, AZ
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, and repeated jaw clenching can gradually wear down enamel, damage dental restorations, cause tooth sensitivity, and contribute to morning headaches or jaw discomfort. Snoring can also interrupt sleep for you and those around you. At Jennifer Fineberg DDS, we provide customized night guards and oral appliances designed to fit your bite comfortably and address your individual needs.
A custom night guard creates a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth. It does not necessarily stop bruxism, but it can reduce direct tooth-to-tooth contact and help protect your smile from excessive wear, cracks, and other damage. The design and material of the guard will depend on your bite, grinding pattern, symptoms, and existing dental work.
Snore appliances work differently from protective night guards. These custom oral appliances gently hold the lower jaw in a forward position while you sleep, which may help keep the upper airway open and reduce snoring for appropriate patients.
Persistent or loud snoring can sometimes be associated with obstructive sleep apnea, a potentially serious sleep-related breathing disorder. A snore guard should not be used as a substitute for a medical evaluation. If sleep apnea is suspected, Dr. Fineberg may recommend evaluation by a physician or sleep specialist before creating an oral appliance.
If you grind your teeth, wake with jaw discomfort, or have concerns about snoring, schedule an evaluation at our Glendale dental office. Dr. Fineberg will examine your teeth and bite, discuss your symptoms, and determine whether a custom night guard or snore appliance may be appropriate.
What causes teeth grinding?
The exact cause of teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is not always clear. Several physical, emotional, medical, and lifestyle factors may contribute to grinding or clenching during the day or while sleeping.
Stress or Anxiety
Emotional stress, anxiety, frustration, and intense concentration can cause some people to tighten their jaw or clench their teeth without realizing it.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Other Sleep Disorders
Sleep bruxism may be associated with obstructive sleep apnea, snoring, and other sleep-related conditions. Patients with signs of sleep apnea should receive an appropriate medical evaluation.
Certain Medications or Substances
Some antidepressants, medications used for attention disorders, stimulants, caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs may increase the likelihood of grinding or clenching in certain people.
Bite or Dental Concerns
An uneven bite, damaged dental restoration, or a filling or crown that feels too high may contribute to abnormal tooth contact and jaw discomfort.
What causes snoring?
Snoring occurs when airflow is partially restricted during sleep, causing tissues in the throat or upper airway to vibrate. Several factors can narrow the airway or make these tissues more likely to relax.
Sleeping on Your Back
Sleeping on your back allows the tongue and soft tissues to move toward the throat, which may narrow the airway and increase snoring.
Relaxed Throat and Jaw Muscles
During sleep, the muscles supporting the tongue, soft palate, throat, and lower jaw naturally relax. Excessive relaxation may narrow the airway and increase tissue vibration.
Large Tonsils or an Elongated Soft Palate
Large tonsils, an elongated soft palate, a larger tongue, or other anatomical features may reduce the available space in the upper airway.
Nasal Congestion
Allergies, sinus problems, a cold, or a deviated nasal septum may restrict nasal airflow and contribute to mouth breathing and snoring.
Alcohol or Sedating Medications
Alcohol and certain sedating medications can relax the throat muscles further, making snoring more likely or more severe.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Loud or persistent snoring may be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea, particularly when accompanied by choking or gasping during sleep, morning headaches, or excessive daytime fatigue. These symptoms require evaluation by a physician or sleep specialist.