Whether awake or asleep, grinding and clenching your teeth is no laughing matter. Although it may not seem like anything more than a nuisance, bruxism can have lasting consequences for your oral health, like tooth loss. It can also impact your quality of life as you develop jaw pain that can make it difficult to chew, yawn, or even speak. Thankfully, a nightguard is a simple solution from your dentist in Tallahassee that can save your smile and stop your pain.
Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, involves involuntary clenching or moving the lower jaw against the upper teeth in a way that makes them rub against one another. It can be caused by several issues, such as a misaligned bite, acid reflux, stress, sleep disorders, or certain medications.
No matter the cause, at least 10% of the population grind their teeth at night; however, many people aren’t aware they do it. It isn’t until dental issues or painful symptoms develop that they realize there’s a problem.
Bruxism can cause a wide range of problems if it’s left untreated because it affects the facial bones, nerves, muscles, and the teeth. The pressure can irritate the nerves, muscles, and bones, leading to pain or sensitivity. Your teeth or muscles may be too tender to chew, or your jaw may feel stiff or sore, which can become progressively worse throughout the day.
Bruxism also affects your oral health. The friction between your upper and lower teeth can cause enamel erosion. Over time, this can weaken your teeth, eventually leading to a break or fracture. Your teeth may also start to loosen, which can cause them to fall out.
The first course of treatment often involves the use of a nightguard. This provides your teeth with the protection they need against the pressure of grinding while also allowing your jaw muscles to recover. Over time, it can help you break the habit to ensure you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
A nightguard is the go-to solution to treat bruxism. The oral device looks like an athletic mouthguard, but it is a bit different. It acts as a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth to protect them from damage. This also takes the strain off your nerves, jaw, and muscles to reduce headaches, tenderness, and other symptoms associated with the condition.
Besides treating bruxism, a nightguard is also an effective treatment for a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which can cause teeth grinding. The nightguard is custom fit to reposition your lower jaw into a more comfortable resting position. Over time, it retrains your jaw to rest there naturally, which can provide you with permanent relief from both conditions.
If you’re ready to stop living with the pain of bruxism, your first step is to have a consultation with our office. We can provide you with a comfortable, effective nightguard in Tallahassee to save your smile. Contact our office today to learn more or to schedule an appointment.