Clenching or grinding your teeth at night can cause some unfortunate dental issues, but this can easily be prevented with the use of an occlusal night guard when you go to sleep. You’ll be able to sleep better and wake up in the morning without the annoying discomfort.
Occlusal night guards protect against bruxism, which describes the clenching and grinding many people endure as they sleep. The night guards we provide to our patients are plastic and custom-made to fit your smile.
When you bite down, you create a massive amount of pressure, which can cause a lot of damage if it continues every night. The mouth guard prevents that damage from occurring.
The symptoms of bruxism are usually easy to notice, with some of the most common signs being tongue indentations, chipped teeth, jaw soreness, and headaches. Some others include:
Bruxism can have numerous causes, but it’s often the result of stress, anxiety, or frustration. For some people, it might even just be an annoying habit they can’t break.
Bruxism is not something you want to ignore. If you notice any of the common signs you’re clenching or grinding, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible for a night guard fitting. It can save you from needing cosmetic treatments such as veneers or cosmetic crowns, plus you’ll start the day without pain.
Dr. Kelly and the team at My Smile Dentistry are always ready to look out for your smile and overall oral health. Do you have an issue with grinding? Contact us today to schedule an appointment.