Your snore guard could be hurting your teeth due to several reasons, primarily related to improper fit, quality issues, or underlying dental conditions.
Potential Causes of Snore Guard-Related Tooth Pain
Here's a breakdown of common causes:
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Poor Fit:
- A snore guard that is too tight or doesn't conform correctly to your teeth can exert undue pressure. This pressure can lead to toothache, jaw pain, and even shifting of teeth.
- Solution: Consult your dentist for a properly fitted, custom-made snore guard. Over-the-counter guards often require a "boil and bite" fitting process, and if this isn't done correctly, it can lead to a poor fit.
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Low-Quality Material:
- Snore guards made from inexpensive or low-quality materials may not distribute pressure evenly. They can be too rigid and cause discomfort or pain.
- Solution: Invest in a snore guard made from high-quality, dental-grade materials. Custom-fitted guards typically utilize better materials.
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Teeth Shifting or Jaw Misalignment:
- Even if your snore guard initially fit well, changes in your teeth alignment or jaw position over time can make it uncomfortable and cause pain. These shifts can occur due to various factors, including natural aging or other dental work.
- Solution: Schedule an appointment with your dentist to evaluate the fit of your snore guard and determine if adjustments are needed. In some cases, a new guard might be necessary.
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Underlying Dental Issues:
- Pre-existing dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can be aggravated by a snore guard, even if it fits reasonably well.
- Solution: See your dentist for a comprehensive examination to rule out any underlying dental issues that may be contributing to the pain. Treating these issues may resolve the discomfort associated with wearing the snore guard.
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Bruxism (Teeth Grinding):
- If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), wearing a snore guard can exacerbate the pressure on your teeth and jaw, leading to pain.
- Solution: Talk to your dentist about a bruxism-specific night guard, which is designed to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching. They may also recommend stress-reduction techniques.
What To Do If Your Snore Guard Hurts
- Stop using the snore guard immediately. Continuing to wear it can worsen the problem.
- Schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can assess the fit of the guard, examine your teeth and jaw, and determine the cause of the pain.
- Follow your dentist's recommendations. This may include adjusting the guard, getting a new guard, or addressing any underlying dental problems.
