Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can cause you to wake up in the middle of the night with a sore jaw, headache, or even tooth pain. If you visit our dentist in Boystown and mention that you may have bruxism, we can recommend night guards as a solution. Wearing a night guard can help alleviate some of the pain that comes with grinding your teeth.
What is Bruxism?
If your teeth ache, but there are no signs of tooth decay or gum disease, bruxism may be the culprit. Bruxism affects millions of people in the United States, no matter their age. If you have bruxism and it is left untreated, it could result in more damage, leading to the following:
- Damage to current crowns and fillings.
- Worn-down enamel
- Increased possibility of infection or decay.
What Are Some Causes of Bruxism?
If your teeth are aching from teeth grinding, it’s possible you have crooked teeth, poor jaw alignment, or even stress and anxiety. Depending on what is causing your bruxism, your dentist will recommend a specific treatment.
What Are Night Guards and How Can They Help?
Night guards are designed and worn to protect patients’ teeth. They also help prevent TMJ, teeth grinding, and jaw pain while sleeping. A clear and hard acrylic guard is worn over either the upper or lower teeth, creating a barrier that prevents subconscious teeth clenching and grinding. Our dentists in Boystown offer different types of night guards depending on the patient’s needs.
- Soft Guards: These are comfortable to wear, but they wear out more quickly than a harder one. Soft guards are easy to get used to as well as low in cost.
- Dual Laminate: This night guard is for severe grinders, and they are soft on the inside and hard on the outside to handle heavy clenching and grinding. They last longer than soft guards and offer a longer warranty as well.
- Hard Guards: Hard guards are made from acrylic, making them extremely rigid and durable. If you have TMJ pain, your dental professional will most likely recommend a hard guard.
We know grinding symptoms can be painful, leaving permanent dental damage behind. Night guards help with teeth clenching and grinding and are highly recommended to get rid of your pain. Even though guards take time to get used to, they are beneficial in helping your teeth and gums stay strong and healthy. Plus, the cushioning effect helps the lower and upper teeth keep from wearing each other down.
Get In Touch Today!
Come visit us on North Halsted Street, give us a call, or send us an email at [email protected] to discuss your night guard options. Your dentist in Boystown, Northalsted Dental Spa, looks forward to meeting you and making sure you receive the treatment you deserve.
