Can a Night Guard Prevent Teeth Grinding?

A night guard is an appliance that fits over your teeth and gums. It cushions and protects them from damage. It can be used to protect the teeth from grinding or clenching while you sleep. Read on to find out how a night guard can prevent teeth grinding.

Night guard for teeth grinding

Teeth grinding and clenching is commonly referred to as bruxism. It is very common and can not only be painful but also destructive to teeth. Many adults grind their teeth at night. This condition also affects many children.

Signs and symptoms

It is often difficult for people to determine whether it is a serious problem. But if a person notices or experiences some of the signs and symptoms associated with the condition, visiting a dentist may be recommended. One common sign of teeth grinding is a chipped tooth. If a person chips a tooth, it can be an indicator that the condition has become more serious. A patient should talk to the dentist about a night guard before chipping more teeth.

Some individuals grind periodically due to temporary issues. These include stress at work. For a person who grinds the teeth most nights, seeing the dentist is ideal. A night guard can minimize the negative impact on the teeth. Some other symptoms of teeth grinding include waking up with headaches, jaw soreness, facial pain, and fatigue. Bruxism can also lead to the loss of tooth enamel and even tooth loss.

Night guards

Many cases of teeth grinding can be treated easily by wearing a night guard while sleeping. A night guard puts a barrier between the teeth. It keeps the bottom and top teeth separated which prevents them from damaging each other. This is often from the pressure of clenching and grinding.

When a person clenches the jaw, the appliance can lighten the tension and cushion jaw muscles. This cushioning helps to prevent jaw and face pain. It also protects the teeth’s enamel. There are different types of night guards that can be beneficial.

Some night guards can be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription. To use it, a person simply has to boil it and then let it cool for a couple of seconds. A person is then supposed to place it over the teeth and bite down. It is usually adapted to the user’s mouth.

A patient can also get a custom-made night guard from the dentist. These types are often ideal because they are of higher quality and fit well because the appliances are made in a lab from an impression of the mouth. It is often more costly than an over-the-counter night guard. But it is usually more comfortable to wear.

Bottom line

Periodic teeth grinding may not lead to any real problems. But long-term consistent teeth grinding can lead to serious issues. Even though bruxism is a common problem, you should not have to suffer. Many cases can be treated by wearing a night guard. You should talk to your dentist about night guards and other ways of treating teeth grinding.

Request an appointment here: https://hemetdentalcenter.com or call Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC. at (951) 707-4366 for an appointment in our Hemet office.

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