Bruxism - Teeth Grinding
What is bruxism?
Almost everyone grinds and clenches their teeth once in a while. The medical term for it is bruxism. There is usually no harm if it only happens from time to time, however, if it is a regular occurrence, bruxism can damage your teeth (excessive wear, fracturing, pain, sensitivity, loosening or loss) and cause other health problems, such as worsening of TMD (temporomandibular disorder) and even modify the shape of your face. Bruxism occurs mostly at night and can also happen during the day.
Causes of bruxism
Teeth grinding can be caused by stress, anxiety, abnormal bite, missing/crooked teeth or sleep apnea. If you have been told that you grind your teeth while you sleep or if you suffer from constant, dull headaches or wake up with a sore jaw, you should visit the dentist. Dr. Mauricio Galvis, dentist in Pointe-Claire QC will evaluate your symptoms to confirm if you have this condition and make the necessary recommendations.
Solutions for bruxism
Among the solutions available to you is a night mouth guard, also called an occlusal splint that fits over the biting surfaces of the teeth of one jaw so that you bite against it rather than your teeth. It will prevent further damage to your teeth and therefore give your jaw a well-deserved respite. Night mouth guards are comfortable, transparent, and lightweight.
A customized fit is crucial for long-term results and success. Therefore, upper and lower impressions of your teeth are taken to fabricate a thermoplastic appliance that protects the teeth and can also act as a retainer.
Other benefits of the night mouth guards are:
- less tension and pain;
- headache prevention;
- improved sleep patterns;
- long-term financial savings.
Caring for your night guard
Properly cleaning and taking care of your night mouth guard is very important to ensure its longevity.
- Brush your night guard in the morning when you brush your teeth. Do not use toothpaste.
- Rinse it with cool water before and after use and let it dry well before storing it.
- When you are not wearing your night guard, always store it in the case. The case should always be clean and dry.
- If your night guard becomes loose, tight or causes you any discomfort, contact our office at 514-697-7391.
- Bring your night guard to your dental cleaning and regular checkup appointments so our hygienists and dentist in Pointe-Claire can inspect it and make sure it is still fitting properly.
