Night Guards for Bruxism - A complete Guide for Patients

 

Bruxism means teeth grinding or jaw clenching, usually during sleep.
Most people don’t even realize they do it until the symptoms show up.

Common Signs You May Be Grinding Your Teeth

• Morning headaches
• Jaw pain or tightness
• Worn-down or chipped teeth
• Sensitivity
• Disturbed sleep
• Clicking sounds in jaw

If you relate to two or more of these… a night guard can help initially!

What Is a Night Guard?

A night guard (also called an occlusal splint) is a custom dental appliance you wear while sleeping.
It acts like a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth.

Benefits of Using a Night Guard

 1. Protects Teeth

Prevents wear, cracks, chipping, and enamel loss caused by grinding.

2. Reduces Jaw Pain

Helps relax the jaw muscles and reduces stress on the TMJ.

3. Better Sleep Quality

Grinding can disturb sleep. A night guard creates smoother jaw movement.

4. Prevents Long-Term Damage

Stops progression into TMJ disorders, gum recession, and severe enamel loss.

5. Saves Money

Treating worn teeth or fractures is costly. Prevention is cheaper and easier.

There are soft as well as hard night guards depending on your habit/requirement and as suggested by your dentist.

How to Care for Your Night Guard

• Rinse with water after every use
• Brush gently with a soft toothbrush
• Store in a ventilated case
• Avoid hot water (may distort shape)
• Bring it to your dental visits for cleaning and check-up

Conclusion

Early detection prevents major problems later. Severe cases of Bruxism require restorations, Crowns and full mouth rehabilitation, TMJ correction etc if not treated in the early stages

Night guards are a simple, non-invasive, and effective solution for anyone suffering from bruxism in its early stages. If your patients wake up tired, have jaw pain, or notice tooth wear — a custom-made night guard can protect their smile while they sleep.Top of Form

To book an appointment with us

Call us at: +912240147049/09321330133
iDent, Idyll Dental Clinic
Email: smileident@gmail.com
Website: www.smileident.com

 

What our patients say! Happy Patients, Happy Clinic :)

 

To book an appointment with us

Call us at: +912240147049/09321330133
iDent, Idyll Dental Clinic
Email: smileident@gmail.com
Website: www.smileident.com

 

 

WHICH TOOTHPASTE IS RIGHT FOR YOU??

 Toothpaste is a vital part of keeping our teeth clean and healthy. It's a paste or gel we use with a toothbrush to maintain good oral hygiene and enhance our smiles. Today, toothpaste helps combat cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and even tooth sensitivity.

You might have found yourself standing in a store, staring at an aisle filled with colourful toothpaste options. With so many choices, it can be confusing to know which one to pick. Don't worry! We’re here to help you choose the right toothpaste for your needs.

Key Ingredients in Toothpaste

·       Humectants: These ingredients help keep toothpaste moist and prevent it from drying out. Common humectants like glycerol keep the paste smooth and easy to use.

·       Abrasives: These substances help scrub away plaque, stains, and food particles from your teeth. Ingredients like calcium carbonate and silica are commonly used to provide that cleaning action.

·       Thickeners: To ensure toothpaste has a smooth texture that’s easy to squeeze out of the tube, thickeners like cellulose gum or seaweed extracts are added.

·       Detergents: Ingredients like sodium lauryl sulphate create the foamy lather we associate with brushing, making it easier to clean your teeth effectively.

·       Flavouring Agents: To make brushing more enjoyable, toothpaste often includes flavours like mint, bubble-gum, or fruity options, especially appealing for kids.

Why Use Fluoride Toothpaste?

According to the American Dental Association, fluoride is essential for keeping your teeth strong and preventing decay. While some people avoid fluoride, numerous studies show that using the right amount is safe and beneficial for your dental health.

If You Have Sensitive Teeth

For those who experience sensitivity, there are specific toothpastes designed to help. Look for ingredients like potassium nitrate, which can alleviate discomfort. These toothpastes may taste different, but they can effectively reduce sensitivity. You can choose between over-the-counter options or discuss a prescription with your dentist for stronger solutions.

Want Whiter Teeth?

If you're aiming for a brighter smile, consider toothpaste with baking soda. This gentle abrasive helps remove stains and polish your teeth. Some teeth whitening toothpastes may also contain peroxide for added brightness. However, it's always best to consult with a dentist before using these products to ensure they're safe and effective for your teeth.

For Those Who Prefer Natural Options

If you’re sensitive to chemicals, organic toothpaste might be a suitable choice. These products usually contain natural ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals. However, always check that they include fluoride to ensure you’re still getting effective cavity protection.

Kids and Toothpaste

When choosing toothpaste for children, look for brands specifically made for them. Kids' toothpaste often has lower fluoride levels and fewer abrasives to protect their developing teeth. Plus, it often comes in fun flavours that make brushing enjoyable! Some dentists recommend fluoride toothpaste for children over three years old to help prevent cavities.

For Smokers

If you smoke, your teeth may become stained over time. Toothpaste with stronger abrasives can help remove these stains and freshen your breath, making it a good choice for smokers.

Conclusion

Before heading to the store, it’s important to know your needs. Different people may require different types of toothpaste, so understanding your specific situation can make the selection easier. With this guide, you can confidently pick the right toothpaste for you and your family!

To book an appointment with us

Call us at: +912240147049/09321330133
iDent, Idyll Dental Clinic
Email: smileident@gmail.com
Website: www.smileident.com

 

 

WHY YOU SHOULDN’T IGNORE A CRACKED TOOTH !!

Have you ever bitten into something hard and felt a sharp twinge in your tooth? Ignoring a cracked tooth is easy when the pain isn’t constant or severe. But the risks of a cracked tooth can be manifold.

But did you know that leaving it untreated can lead to more than just dental discomfort? From infections to tooth loss, the risks of ignoring a cracked tooth go far beyond what you might expect.

Cracked teeth don’t just affect your smile—they can jeopardize your overall health. Bacteria can sneak through the tiniest cracks, causing infections that may spread beyond your mouth. 

How Do Cracked Teeth Happen? Common Causes You Should Know

Often, the causes seem harmless until you’re left dealing with discomfort or pain. Understanding these triggers is the first step toward prevention.

·       Chewing hard foods: Crunching on ice, popcorn kernels, fruit seeds or hard candies can create stress points on your teeth, leading to cracks.

·       Teeth grinding (bruxism): Constant grinding during sleep wears down enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to cracks.

·       Accidents or trauma: A fall, sports injury, or even a sudden blow to the face can result in a cracked tooth.

·       Weakened enamel: Age, acid erosion, or untreated cavities can weaken your enamel, making it easier for cracks to form.

·       Temperature extremes: Switching from very hot to freezing foods or drinks quickly can damage your teeth and cause cracks.

Signs and Symptoms

While you might be someone who has a small crack in your tooth and don’t even know it’s there, many people experience some degree of symptoms. This can include:

• Severe toothache when you bite down on something
• Extreme sensitivity to hot, cold, sugary, or salty foods
• Random shooting pain in one specific spot
• Swelling in the gums around the affected tooth

 Any of these issues should be checked out by a dentist as soon as possible to prevent complications or infection.

Treatment

Tooth restorations, Crowns, root canals and tooth extractions are few common treatment options.

Prevention is always better than treatment. Adopting a few habits can significantly reduce your risk of cracking a tooth.

·       Avoid hard foods: Skip chewing ice or hard candies to prevent stress on your teeth.

·       Use a mouth guard: Protect your teeth while sleeping if you grind or clench your jaw.

·       Regular check-ups: Routine visits help catch early signs of weakness or damage.

·       Maintain oral hygiene: Strong, healthy enamel is less likely to crack. Brush and floss daily.

·       Address dental concerns early: Don’t ignore cavities as they can lead to cracks.

 

 

Is your mouth trying to tell you something? DENTAL RED FLAGS YOU SHOULD’NT IGNORE !!!!

Your mouth can reveal far more than cavities or gum disease. In fact, it’s often one of the first places where signs of deeper health issues appear. Paying attention to changes in your oral health can help you catch serious conditions early.

                                              

Let’s take a look at some of the most common (and surprising) red flags your mouth might be trying to send you.

1. Persistent Mouth Ulcers or Sores

What it could mean: Nutritional deficiencies, stress, immune disorders, or even early signs of oral cancer.

When to worry: Sores that don’t heal in 2 weeks, bleed, or have irregular edges.

 

2. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

What it could mean: Medication side effect, dehydration, or an underlying condition like diabetes or Sjögren’s syndrome.

Why it matters: Saliva protects teeth; low saliva increases cavity and gum risk.

 

 3. Bleeding Gums

What it could mean: Gingivitis or periodontitis, but also possible blood clotting disorders or vitamin deficiencies.

When to act: Bleeding when brushing/flossing is not normal—schedule a check-up.

 

 4. Bad Breath That Doesn’t Go Away

What it could mean: Gum disease, tonsil stones, sinus infections, or gastrointestinal issues.

Tip: If brushing and mouthwash don’t help, it’s time to look deeper.

 

 5. Cracked or Worn Teeth

What it could mean: Teeth grinding (bruxism) due to stress, sleep apnea, or misaligned bite.

Why it’s dangerous: Leads to enamel wear, jaw pain, and long-term damage.

 

 6. Pale or Swollen Gums

What it could mean: Anemia, hormonal changes, or medication side effects, gingivitis or infection

What to watch: Gum color changes, puffiness, or unusual bleeding, pussy discharge.

 

 7. Tongue Changes (Colour, Texture, Coating)

What it could mean: A smooth tongue could signal iron or B12 deficiency; a white coating may be fungal (thrush).

Note: Your tongue is a mirror of your gut and immune system.

 

8. White or Red Patches in the Mouth

These can sometimes indicate precancerous changes and should never be ignored.

Your mouth is constantly sending signals about your health — the key is not to ignore them. Small signs like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or sensitivity may seem harmless at first, but they often point to underlying dental issues. The sooner you pay attention, the easier it is to treat and prevent complications.

So, listen to your mouth. Schedule regular dental checkups, maintain good oral hygiene, and never dismiss unusual changes. After all, a healthy smile isn’t just about looks — it’s a reflection of your overall well-being.

To book an appointment with us

Call us at: +912240147049/09321330133
iDent, Idyll Dental Clinic
Email: smileident@gmail.com
Website: www.smileident.com

 

Water Flosser vs Traditional Flossing: Which Is More Effective??

When it comes to oral hygiene, brushing your teeth is only part of the equation. Flossing plays a crucial role in removing plaque, food particles, and bacteria from between your teeth and along your gum line. While traditional string flossing has been the go-to method for decades, the advent of water flossers has introduced an alternative way to clean between your teeth. So, which one is more effective at promoting oral health? Let’s compare water flossers and traditional flossing to help you decide which method is best for you.

WHAT IS TRADITIONAL FLOSSING AND WATER FLOSSING ??

Traditional Flossing: Traditional flossing involves using a thin strand of dental floss, typically made from nylon or Teflon, to clean between your teeth. The goal is to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria from areas that a toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing is done by gently inserting the string between the teeth and curving it around each tooth, cleaning along the gum line.

 Water Flossing: Water flossing, also known as an oral irrigator, uses a stream of pulsating water to remove debris from between teeth and below the gum line. This method is typically easier for people with braces, dental implants, or sensitive gums, as it uses water pressure instead of friction.

Water pick users say their mouths feel fresher after use, and that’s because water flossers are more effective than dental floss or floss picks at plaque removal.

Studies show that water flossers remove 29% more plaque than floss. Water flossers are also more gentle for people with gum sensitivity. In addition, patients with less dexterity tend to find water flossers easier to use than most other interdental cleaners.

BENEFITS OF WATER FLOSSING

·       Water flossing provides a gentle yet powerful stream of water that can reach hard-to-reach places and deep clean

·       Gentle on gums, reducing irritation and bleeding. Most suitable for people with sensitive or inflamed gums

·       Effective for people with Implants, crowns and bridges, extensive fillings, braces

·       It is user friendly, requires less skill to use and is a great option for those with limited dexterity.

Limitations :

·       It may not remove plaque as effectively as traditional flossing.

·       Requires a power source and isn’t as portable.

·       Higher initial cost.

 

BENEFITS OF TRADITIONAL FLOSS

·        Effective at removing plaque and food particles.

·       Stimulates gum tissue for better gum health.

·       Inexpensive and widely available.

·       Portable and doesn’t require electricity.

Limitations :

 It can be difficult for people with limited dexterity.

It may cause gum irritation if done too aggressively.

Takes more time to perform effectively.

CONCLUSION

Consistency is key to maintaining good oral health, so pick the type of floss that you think you’ll be more consistent with. You can try one type and then switch to the other, alternate, and figure out which is your preferred method. At the end of the day, it’s just important that you’re prioritising a clean smile with little to no plaque. So as long as you’re doing that, you’ll be good to go!

To book an appointment with us

Call us at: +912240147049/09321330133
iDent, Idyll Dental Clinic
Email: smileident@gmail.com
Website: www.smileident.com

 

Understanding Dental Crowns: Guide to a Perfect Fit

 

                                                         

So, your dentist has mentioned you might need a dental cap, or perhaps you’ve heard a friend talking about getting one, and now you’re curious – what exactly is a dental cap? In simple terms, a dental cap, commonly known as a crown, is like a protective cover placed over a tooth. It’s designed to restore the tooth’s shape, size, and function, especially if it’s been damaged or weakened. 

A dental crown isn’t just a cover—it’s a powerhouse of protection. Think of it as armour for your tooth, shielding it from damage and further wear. Crowns are made of durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal, and they’re designed to replicate the look and feel of your natural teeth.

 

Dental crowns are versatile solutions used in various situations where teeth require extra support and protection. Below are common scenarios when a crown might be necessary:

 

1. Severe Tooth Decay: When a tooth is too decayed for a filling, a crown can provide the needed structure.

 

2. Fractured or Cracked Teeth: Crowns help hold a cracked tooth together, preventing further damage.

 

3. Post-Root Canal: After a root canal, teeth become weaker and more brittle, making crowns essential to preserve them.

 

4. Worn Teeth: Grinding or an improper bite can wear teeth down, requiring crowns for protection and restoration.

 

5. Dental Implants: Crowns are placed on implants to replace missing teeth, providing a natural look and feel.

 

When you have a crown made, you want a perfect fit. These are the characteristics to look for:

·       Good emerging angle from the gums for aesthetic reasons.

·       Proper contour against adjacent teeth for comfort and decreased chance of food impaction

·       Good contact between adjacent and opposing teeth for a comfortable bite.

·       Good colour matching so the crown blends in.

 

Sometimes, dentists and technicians make mistakes and end up fitting you with a bad crown. You know you have an ill-fitting crown if you face these problems:

·       Improper fit, resulting in tooth sensitivity, recurrent tooth decay and quick failure of the crown.

·       Over-contoured crown, resulting in gum inflammation and gum disease.

·       Loose crown, also resulting in gum inflammation and gum disease.

·       Too tight of a fit between adjacent teeth, resulting in toothaches.

·       No contact with adjacent teeth, resulting in food impaction and recurrent tooth decay.

·       Poor aesthetic appearance in terms of colour or shape.

If everyone knows the qualities of good crowns, why aren’t they all made properly? The fact is making good crowns requires a high level of skill, experience, and communication between dentists and dental technicians. A good crown and an ill-fitting one may differ very slightly. Just a few millimetres of over- or under-trimming can change your bite or the level of contact with adjacent teeth.

This is why it’s so important to choose a dentist with the skills and experience necessary to fit you with a good crown.