Bruxism, or clenching and grinding of teeth, is a disorder that has unknowingly affected many individuals. It is an involuntary habit that occurs while sleeping, and therefore, it is hard to escape. Bruxism can result in serious dental and health problems in the future, such as including Bruxism and jaw pain, headaches, and tooth wear. Fortunately, night guards give an effective way of relieving the consequences of bruxism and protection for the mouth.
Learning About Bruxism and Causes
Bruxism is classified into two types: awake bruxism and sleep bruxism. Awake bruxism is generally brought about by anxiety, stress, or concentration. Sleep bruxism, on the other hand, occurs involuntarily during sleep. Stress, malocclusion of teeth, habits, and medical illness like sleep apnea are some of the causes of bruxism. Identification of the etiological factor is important in controlling and preventing complications.
Symptoms of Bruxism
Bruxism usually passes undetected, but some symptoms can reveal its existence:
- Morning stiffness and pain in the jaw
- Recurring headaches or earaches because of muscle tension
- Chipped, worn, or cracked teeth due to excessive grinding
- Tooth sensitivity as a result of enamel erosion
- Sleep disruption, such as restlessness or frequent waking
- Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, which can be an indicator of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems
- Facial or neck pain due to prolonged muscle tension
- Indentations within the cheeks or tongue from clenching involuntarily
Should you feel any of these, a dentist is able to diagnose the condition and recommend some solutions, for example, a personal night guard, stress therapy, or a bite adjustment, in order to prevent more harm and ensure good oral health.
Impact of Bruxism on Oral Health
If left untreated, bruxism can have dire consequences on the dental health of the person involved. Repeated grinding and clenching of teeth put an excessive load on them, causing enamel loss, fractures, and, in some cases, loss of the tooth. Also, tightness of the jaw muscles has been implicated in the development of temporomandibular joint disorders, contributing to pain and difficulty in chewing or talking. Professional treatment provided by a dentist in SE Calgary can mitigate these risks and help towards long-term oral health.
How Night Guards Can Help
One of the best methods of treating bruxism is through the use of night guards. These are specially designed dental devices that serve as a buffer between the upper and lower teeth, so they do not come into direct contact with each other and thus decrease the grinding force. If you are searching for night guards near you, you can get the best solution for your situation by consulting a professional dentist. Night guards not only prevent the teeth from being damaged but also reduce jaw pain and enhance sleep.
Types of Night Guards
There are various nightguard types depending on personal requirements:
- Soft Night Guards: Specially designed for mild bruxism cases, providing comfort and wear ease.
- Hard Night Guards: constructed from hard acrylic material for severe cases of bruxism.
- Dual-Layer Night Guards: Combination of both soft and hard materials for moderate cases of bruxism.
Your dentist will be able to suggest the most appropriate type depending on the severity of your condition and personal comfort.
Benefits of Using Night Guards
Wearing a nightguard has various benefits other than protecting the teeth:
- Decreases the chance of tooth wear and breaking
- Alleviates jaw pain and tension
- Prevents headaches due to teeth grinding
- Lessens jaw joint strain
- Enhances sleep quality by decreasing disruption
By including night guards in your oral health regimen, you can avoid future dental issues and lead a healthier life.
Getting Professional Assistance
At Wolf Willow Orchid Dental, we provide excellent night guards to safeguard your teeth and reduce the effects of bruxism. Our skilled dentists are committed to offering individualized care and efficient solutions to improve your oral health. Call us today to arrange a consultation and discover the ideal treatment for you.