Protecting Teeth from the Damaging Effects of Bruxism
Nightguards, alternatively referred to as dental guards or mouth guards, serve to mitigate the adverse impacts of teeth grinding. Typically crafted from a resilient material known as acrylic resin, they come in both soft and hard variations. Your dentist may advise wearing the nightguard over your upper front teeth during sleep to prevent contact with your lower front teeth.
If you have severe teeth grinding (bruxism), consider using a dental guard for your lower teeth. These guards protect your teeth from grinding and provide support for your jaw muscles. Consult a dental professional for the right guard. Custom-made guards are durable, comfortable, and easy to clean. They also relieve strain on your jaw muscles, promoting oral health. Protect your teeth and jaw with a dental guard designed for the lower teeth.
Advantages of Using Night Guards for Bruxism
Bruxism, the act of grinding teeth, can happen both during the day and while sleeping. It is commonly caused by anger, stress, or anxiety and is usually done unconsciously. Nevertheless, this habit can harm oral health. Dentists may suggest using a nightguard along with anxiety treatments such as medication or therapy to protect your teeth.
Although night guards cannot fully eliminate teeth grinding, they can help prevent damage to fillings, chipping or loosening of teeth, and excessive wear of tooth enamel. Furthermore, using a nightguard may enhance sleep quality and alleviate symptoms related to bruxism.
- Tooth sensitivity or pain
- Accidental cheek biting
- Receding gums
- Fatigue from disrupted sleep during the night
- Discomfort in the face due to tight or sore jaw muscles
- Headaches related to the temples
Using nightguards for TMJ offers numerous advantages
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) play a crucial role in the movement of your mouth. However, teeth grinding can lead to problems with these joints, causing TMJ and symptoms like jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, and a locked jaw. TMJ can also be caused by inflammation or jaw injuries. Fortunately, wearing nightguards for TMJ while sleeping can help align your jaws correctly and alleviate muscle tension. Additionally, using a nightguard may provide relief from other TMJ symptoms, including:
- Facial pain or unease
- Pain in the neck and shoulders
- Intense discomfort resembling an earache
- Sensation of hearing a ringing sound in the ear
- Difficulties with chewing or speaking
- Discomfort during eating or talking