Nightguards
If you find yourself waking in the night with jaw pain, tooth pain, headaches, or earaches, grinding and clenching your teeth while you sleep could be the reason. This condition is called bruxism. Over the long term, bruxism isn’t just painful; it can actually damage your teeth! Thankfully, our dentists can prescribe a custom-made dental night guard to ease your symptoms and protect your teeth.
Here are some warning signs that you may have bruxism and how wearing a custom-made dental night guard can help.
Signs of Bruxism
Some people aren’t aware that they grind or clench their teeth at night, which is why it’s important to learn the symptoms of bruxism. If you notice any of the signs and symptoms below, schedule an appointment with us to discuss your concerns.
- Pain in your neck, face, or jaw
- Tooth pain
- Teeth grinding or clenching noticed by others
- Ear pain after ear problems have been ruled out
- Sores on the inside of your cheek from chewing
- Loose teeth
- Broken, chipped, or flattened teeth
- A headache that starts at your temple
- Eroded enamel, with deeper layers of your teeth showing
- Fatigued or tense jaw muscles
- Locked jaw
- Disrupted sleep
What Causes Bruxism?
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Sleep disorders, like sleep apnea
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Side effects from medication
- Substance use
Custom-Made Night Guards
There are many over-the-counter night guards available for purchase, but they are not fitted to your unique mouth. And even over-the-counter night guards that require you to boil them and bite down to make an impression or which require you to mail dental impressions to them may not fit properly. Worse, over-the-counter night guards can present serious dangers to your health, including tissue damage, changes in the way your teeth fit together, and even choking! That’s why it’s imperative that you only use a night guard that is prescribed by your dentist.
If you are diagnosed with bruxism, your dentist will prescribe a custom-made night guard that fits your mouth perfectly. First, she’ll take an accurate impression of your teeth so the dental night guard can be professionally made. Then, your night guard will be made to fit either your upper or lower arch. Finally, once your night guard is ready, she’ll check the fit to ensure it’s accurate and won’t move as you sleep.
Your custom-made night guard will prevent your teeth from rubbing together, so you’ll get better sleep and wake up feeling refreshed, without the tooth pain you may have previously experienced. Remember, though, that any night guard is subject to wear and tear caused by your bruxism. That’s why it’s crucial to keep your follow-up appointments. Your dentist will continue to monitor your condition and prescribe a new night guard when yours becomes too worn.
Do you suspect that you may be suffering from bruxism? Don’t wait until complications arise. Schedule an appointment at our Bryn Mawr office today.
