Protect Your Smile: Understanding the Importance of Night Guards for Bruxism
At Farhoumand Dentistry, we have the skills and on-site capabilities to prevent and treat dental decay and gum disease in Tysons Corner, Virginia. We can also protect against the many complications and effects of bruxism with professional night guards.
What is bruxism?
Bruxism is characterized by semi-involuntarily or involuntarily gnashing or grinding the teeth. Jaw clenching is also involved, as the teeth firmly clamp down on the jaws, causing the muscles to tighten. This condition is associated with poorly managed anxiety and stress. It also impacts around 10% of adults. Symptoms tend to become worse as the day wears on.
These behaviors produce sore muscles, pain, and issues with the temporomandibular joint (“jaw joint”) that connects the mandible to the skull. Bruxism also tends to arise as patients transition from the lighter to deeper stages of sleep. Pain often worsens in the morning, especially as the patient wakes up.
How can you tell if I have it?
In addition to some of the symptoms mentioned here, our dentists may notice the signs during regular checkups/exams. These potential red flags include distinctive wear patterns and teeth that appear “flattened. ” Patients may complain about TMJ symptoms—like chronic headaches, jaw locking, earaches and tinnitus, and pain radiating through the neck, shoulders, and back.
Why should I treat teeth grinding promptly?
Think about this: Every time a person grinds their teeth involuntarily while at rest or under stress, they place 200 to 300 pounds of pressure on the teeth and the intricate system of tissues surrounding and connecting to them. Treatment should commence sooner rather than later to prevent considerable loss of tooth enamel and erosion of the gums and bones that support the teeth.
How do you treat bruxism?
Some patients may benefit from relaxation techniques and stress management exercises. However, everyone with bruxism can largely protect their teeth and smile with special oral appliances called “night guards.” They resemble other oral devices, like retainers and sports mouthguards. You slip the guard over your teeth before bed and can sleep better, knowing that those chompers are protected from fractures and other damage associated with the extreme force from chronic teeth grinding. One effective way to treat bruxism is by correcting misaligned teeth. Nightguards are also used to prevent breakage of your natural teeth, veneers, and implant crowns.
Why should I choose nightguards at Farhoumand Dentistry?
Our professional night guards are customized to your mouth for a unique, precision fit. Additionally, we use highly durable materials. So, they last and last. During routine visits to our office, we will also evaluate the condition of your night guard and make recommendations for care and adjustments as needed. We are so invested in protecting your natural teeth and dental work that such appliances are now a standard of care for patients who have received veneers and implants. We strive to protect that investment in your smile!
Don’t snooze on bruxism treatment – call (703) 636-2442 today to learn more.
