What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding or jaw clenching, is a common condition where individuals unconsciously grind or clench their teeth. While it’s often a habit that people don’t realize they have, bruxism can lead to serious dental problems, including tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches. Many people suffer from sleep bruxism, which occurs at night while they are asleep, but daytime bruxism can also occur due to stress or anxiety.
At Wedgewood Dental in Rolla, MO, we are committed to helping you protect your teeth and jaw from the effects of bruxism. One effective treatment for managing teeth grinding is wearing a night guard, a custom-made dental appliance that protects your teeth while you sleep. But how do you know if you need a night guard? In this blog, we’ll explore the signs and symptoms of bruxism and how a night guard can help.
Common Signs of Bruxism
Teeth grinding can cause a variety of symptoms that might indicate you need a night guard. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s important to visit your Rolla, MO dentist to discuss potential treatment options:
1. Worn or Chipped Teeth
One of the most obvious signs of bruxism is noticeable wear and tear on your teeth. If you see that your teeth are becoming flattened, chipped, or cracked, it’s a strong indication that you may be grinding your teeth, especially at night. Over time, the enamel (the outer layer of your teeth) can wear down, leading to increased tooth sensitivity and a greater risk of cavities. A night guard can prevent further damage by acting as a cushion between your teeth.
2. Frequent Jaw Pain or Tension
Another common symptom of bruxism is jaw pain or discomfort. If you often experience soreness or tightness in your jaw muscles when you wake up or throughout the day, this may be caused by teeth grinding. The constant pressure and clenching can lead to tension in the jaw, which can result in pain or difficulty opening your mouth fully. A night guard can help alleviate this pressure by preventing the grinding action while you sleep.
3. Headaches and Migraines
Many individuals with bruxism experience frequent headaches or migraines, particularly in the morning. The tension caused by grinding your teeth and clenching your jaw can lead to muscle fatigue in the head and neck, resulting in headaches. If you find yourself waking up with a headache or experiencing increased tension in your temples, it could be a sign that you are grinding your teeth during the night. Wearing a night guard can help reduce the severity and frequency of these headaches.
4. Sensitive Teeth
Teeth grinding can cause increased tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods and drinks. As the enamel wears down due to grinding, the underlying dentin becomes exposed, leading to a more sensitive tooth surface. If you’ve noticed that your teeth have become more sensitive over time, it could be related to bruxism. A night guard will protect the teeth from further wear and help reduce sensitivity.
5. Earaches
Bruxism can also cause earaches due to the proximity of your jaw muscles to your ears. Grinding your teeth can put strain on the muscles surrounding your ears, leading to discomfort or pain that can be mistaken for an ear infection. If you experience unexplained earaches, especially in the morning, it could be another sign that you are grinding your teeth at night.
6. Trouble Sleeping or Insomnia
If you grind your teeth at night, it can interfere with your sleep, making it more difficult to get restful, uninterrupted rest. This is especially true if you experience jaw pain, headaches, or discomfort during the night. A night guard can help prevent the disruptive effects of bruxism, allowing you to sleep more soundly and wake up feeling refreshed.
How a Night Guard Can Help
A night guard is a simple and effective way to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of bruxism. Custom-fitted to your teeth, a night guard acts as a protective barrier, preventing your upper and lower teeth from coming into contact during grinding episodes. By doing so, it helps:
1. Prevent Further Tooth Wear
By absorbing the pressure from teeth grinding, a night guard protects the enamel and prevents further damage to your teeth. This helps preserve the structure of your teeth and prevents costly dental repairs down the road.
2. Reduce Jaw Pain and Tension
A night guard helps to alleviate the pressure placed on your jaw muscles by preventing your teeth from grinding against each other. This can significantly reduce jaw pain and discomfort, allowing your muscles to relax and heal overnight.
3. Minimize Headaches
Since bruxism often causes tension headaches, especially in the temples and forehead, wearing a night guard can help reduce the intensity and frequency of these headaches by preventing grinding and jaw clenching during sleep.
4. Improve Sleep Quality
By eliminating the discomfort associated with bruxism, a night guard can help you achieve better sleep. With less pain and fewer disturbances from grinding, you’ll be able to enjoy more restful, uninterrupted sleep, which improves your overall health.
Why Choose Wedgewood Dental for Your Night Guard?
At Wedgewood Dental, we understand the impact that bruxism can have on your oral health and overall well-being. Our team of Rolla, MO dentists is experienced in diagnosing bruxism and providing effective solutions, including custom-made night guards. We will take an impression of your teeth to create a night guard that fits comfortably and works effectively to protect your smile.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
If you’re experiencing any of the signs of bruxism, it’s important to seek help from a professional. Wedgewood Dental is here to provide you with the care and solutions you need to protect your teeth, alleviate jaw pain, and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how a night guard can benefit you.
