Guarding Against Teeth Grinding
How Night Guards Can Save Your Smile
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common dental issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Often occurring during sleep, bruxism can lead to various dental problems, including worn-down teeth, jaw pain, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Fortunately, night guards offer a simple yet effective solution for protecting your smile from the damaging effects of bruxism. At West Lakes Family Dental and Implant Clinic, we’re here to explain how night guards can help save your smile.
Night Guards: Your Shield Against Bruxism
Night guards, also known as occlusal splints or dental splints, are custom-fitted oral appliances designed to be worn while sleeping. They serve as a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other during sleep.
Bruxism: Understanding the Grind
= Causes of Bruxism: Bruxism can be caused by various factors, including stress, anxiety, misaligned teeth, or sleep disorders. Regardless of the underlying cause, the result is the same: repeated clenching or grinding of the teeth, often without the individual being aware of it.
= Effects of Bruxism: Over time, bruxism can take a toll on your oral health. Common consequences of bruxism include worn-down enamel, tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, headaches, and even fractures or cracks in the teeth. In severe cases, bruxism can lead to TMJ disorders, causing pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint.
How Night Guards Can Help
= Cushioning Effect: Night guards create a cushioning effect that absorbs the forces generated by teeth grinding, reducing the impact on your teeth and preventing further wear and damage.
= Jaw Alignment: By keeping the teeth slightly separated, night guards promote proper jaw alignment, reducing strain on the jaw muscles and joints and alleviating TMJ-related symptoms.
= Protection: Night guards act as a protective barrier, preventing direct contact between the upper and lower teeth and minimizing the risk of dental damage caused by bruxism.
The Importance of Custom-Fitted Night Guards
While over-the-counter night guards are available, they often provide a subpar fit and may not offer adequate protection. Custom-fitted night guards, on the other hand, are designed to fit your mouth perfectly, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness. At West Lakes Family Dental and Implant Clinic, our experienced dentists will take impressions of your teeth to create a custom night guard tailored to your unique needs.
Preventing Further Damage
In addition to wearing a night guard, it’s essential to address the underlying causes of bruxism to prevent further damage. Stress management techniques, relaxation exercises, and lifestyle modifications can help reduce bruxism-related symptoms and improve overall oral health.
