If you often wake up with jaw pain, an earache, or a headache or you notice that you are clenching or grinding your teeth, you may have a common condition called bruxism.
Although the causes of bruxism are not really known, several factors may be involved. Stressful situations at home, school, or work, trouble sleeping, an abnormal bite, and crooked or missing teeth may contribute to bruxism. Many people do not even know that they grind their teeth because it often happens during sleep. If not corrected, bruxism can lead to broken or cracked teeth, damaged restorations, and even tooth loss.
There is an easy, non-invasive treatment for bruxism — a nightguard. A nightguard is an easy way to prevent the wear and damage that teeth grinding causes over time. Custom-made from soft material, a nightguard is placed over your top or bottom arch and prevents contact with the opposing teeth.
Choosing the right nightguard is essential. There are three basic types: pre-made, “boil-and-bite”, and custom made from our office. Be sure to pick one that is tear-resistant, comfortable, well suited to the size and shape of your mouth, easy to keep clean, and does not keep you from breathing properly. A nightguard created in our office will fit all these requirements because it will be custom made specifically for your teeth.