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Custom Nightguards In Lincolnshire, IL


Bruxism is a disorder that means excessive tooth grinding and gnashing or clenching of the jaw. It is involuntary which means that the person is not aware that they are doing it. You may unconsciously gnash and grind your teeth or clench your jaw during the day and this is called awake Bruxism, or you clench and grind them during the night which is called night bruxism. Night bruxism is considered a sleep-related movement disorder.

Bruxism does not always cause symptoms, but it can cause jaw pain, headaches and aching teeth. It can wear your teeth down over time and cause hypersensitivity. It can harm dental work like fillings and crowns. Most people who clench their jaws or grind and gnash their teeth are not even aware they are doing it so if you are aware of facial pain, headaches and aching teeth maybe the cause could be bruxism. Disorders that occur in the joints located just in front of your ears may sound like clicking when you open and close your mouth are a symptom of bruxism.

While many people clench their jaws or grind their teeth from time to time it only becomes a problem when it becomes a habit. Bruxism is triggered mainly by anxiety and stress and this accounts for more than 70% of cases. This is known as primary bruxism. If it is as a result of another condition or of medication it is known as secondary bruxism.

The following factors can increase your risk of bruxism:

An increase in stress and anxiety levels can lead to teeth grinding as can anger and frustration. It can be genetic and if you have a history of family members with bruxism, your risk is higher. Bruxism is also associated with some mental health and medical disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, night terrors, sleep related disorders such as sleep apnea, and ADHD (attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder)

The other conditions leading to bruxism include jaw problems, certain medications and excessive alcohol, smoking large amounts of tobacco and recreational drug use.

Jaw Problems. This can occur when the top and bottom teeth are not aligned properly, or teeth are missing or are crooked. This is usually corrected when your jaw and teeth issues are sorted out.

Medications. Bruxism can occur as an unpleasant side effect of some psychiatric medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics and psychotropic drugs.

Lifestyle Choices. Excessive alcohol, cocaine and amphetamines have been linked to the occurrence of bruxism.

Diagnosing sleep bruxism is a challenge but you can detect symptoms in several ways. Patients often detect their own symptoms such as aching jaws, hypersensitive teeth, mouth sores and a feeling of having loose teeth. The most common form of diagnosis is through response from a partner, a room mate or a house mate.

Treatment for bruxism or teeth grinding depends on whether the cause is a sleep disorder, anxiety, your meds or your lifestyle choices. It is important to see your dentist for a comprehensive examination and a treatment plan developed specifically for you.

The best way to protect your teeth and prevent tooth wear and further damage is to wear an occlusal device. These appliances have different names including night guards, bite plates and bruxism appliances. These are fitted plastic mouth pieces that fit over the top and bottom teeth. Wearing one of these will reduce jaw muscle pain and protect your teeth and the joints around your ears. Dr Dmitry Sokol of Village Green Dentistry in Lincolnshire IL offers Custom Night Guards which are manufactured specifically for you. To start preventing the effects of Bruxism and teeth grinding, Dr Dmitry’s selection of Custom Night Guards is designed to protect you. The kit comes with an impression tray to take your own impression. Upon receipt of your dental impression you will receive your custom night guard within 4 – 6 business days. A single night guard, either lower or upper, is usually enough to protect your teeth against grinding unless your dentist recommends otherwise. These Custom Night Guards are supplied directly to you thus saving you money.

If your bruxism is caused by stress and anxiety it is important to treat these symptoms by learning relaxation techniques, stress management skills and even hypnosis has been found to be effective. A Custom Night Guard from Village Green Dentistry in Lincolnshire, IL will ensure that your teeth are protected from cracking and further damage.

Putting an end to grinding and clenching your teeth requires effort and perseverance but a Custom Night Guard from Dr Dmitry Sokol of Village Green Dentistry can assist your treatment plan.

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- Linda Danielson | Lincolnshire, IL

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