If you’ve ever experienced jaw pain, headaches, or earaches, your dentist may have recommended a night guard. A night guard is a device that is worn at night to prevent teeth grinding or clenching, which can cause these unpleasant symptoms. While the night guard can provide relief at night, it can also have some unseen side effects. One such side effect is gum pain.
Gum pain can be caused by wearing a night guard. The plastic material of the night guard can rub against the gums, causing irritation and pain. This is especially true if the night guard does not fit properly and is too tight. If left untreated, this can cause your gums to become swollen and painful.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent gum pain from night guard use. First, make sure that your night guard fits properly. If it is too tight, it can cause the plastic to dig into your gums. Your dentist can help you fit your night guard so that it is comfortable yet still provides the necessary protection from teeth grinding.
In addition to making sure that your night guard fits properly, you can also use a lubricant to help reduce the friction between your gums and the night guard. There are several products on the market that are specifically designed for this purpose. You can also use a soft cloth to cover the night guard before you put it in your mouth. This can help reduce the sensation of the night guard against your gums.
Finally, you can also try using a softer night guard. If your night guard is made from hard plastic, it could be causing your gum pain. Talk to your dentist to see if there are alternative options available.
Night guard use can be helpful in preventing jaw pain, headaches, and earaches, but it can also cause gum pain. If you are experiencing gum pain from your night guard, make sure that it fits properly and try using a lubricant or softer night guard. With the right precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of your night guard without the pain.
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