The Dangers of DIY Mail-Order Nightguards
The internet contains a wealth of information…but it also contains an equal amount of misinformation. Scroll through any social media newsfeed and you will find a solution to every problem. Unfortunately, there is an increasing amount of “skip the dentist and do it yourself” solutions to problems that should be examined and diagnosed by your dentist.
See Your Dentist – Not the Internet – To Diagnose the Cause of Your Jaw Pain
While it is true that nightguards can provide relief of jaw pain caused by clenching and grinding your teeth (otherwise known as Bruxism), a visit to your dentist should be the first place you start to be sure the pain you are experiencing is actually from clenching and grinding and not from some other underlying problem. If a nightguard is indicated, your dentist will advise you on which one is recommended for you. A custom fit is critical with oral appliances, therefore, impressions and fabrication of appliances should be done by a dentist and/or their qualified dental laboratory.
Sleep Apnea and Bruxism
Sleep apnea, a disorder characterized by abnormal pauses in breathing during sleep, is a serious condition that is often accompanied by snoring and bruxism. Ordering a nightguard online without proper examination and diagnosis from a professional can prove to be detrimental to both your dental and general health.
“Do-It-Yourself” Dentistry? Please Don’t!
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