night guardGrinding your teeth while you sleep is a serious issue. Though you may not be aware of it as it is occurring, the damage incurred is serious. If you do happen to suffer from this disorder, you likely experience jaw soreness and notice changes to your teeth. Many individuals dealing with this issue notices chipped teeth, diminished enamel, and a tight jaw. While these may seem like minor symptoms at first teeth grinding — also known as bruxism — can lead to needing more serious procedures down the road, if not dealt with early. For example, if you don’t treat grinding early, you may need porcelain veneers to fix the aesthetic damage done. Luckily, there is a solution; night guards can help ensure that your bruxism won’t hurt your teeth anymore. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA, dentist discusses how he can help protect your teeth while you sleep.

The Factors That Cause Bruxism

Teeth grinding can be caused by many issues, which makes it difficult to treat. If it primarily occurs while you are sleeping, it might be related to other nocturnal issues like snoring or sleep apnea. If it happens during the daytime, it could that is related to emotional occurrences. This disorder is frequently tied to anxiety, stress, or frustration. Additionally, bruxism can be related to jaw alignment issues and can be influenced by lifestyle habits like smoking and consuming alcohol and caffeine. 

What Are The Solutions?

While bruxism can seem like an intimidating disorder to deal with, there are helpful solutions. A night guard is one of the most common and effective ways to treat teeth grinding. If you and your oral healthcare professional decide to go this route, they will create a precise impression of your mouth and create a custom night guard for you to wear while you sleep. Because it is made to fit your mouth, it will fit snugly and comfortably. While it may seem awkward at first, you will definitely become used to it after several nights of wearing it. Plus, knowing that you are helping your teeth stay healthy and minimizing the chances of needing more serious dental procedures down the road will help you adjust quickly. In the end, you want to protect your smile as much as possible, and a nightguard is a simple, yet effective solution that will ensure your mouth and jaw remain\ healthy and comfortable for years tto come.

Contact Us To Learn More About Night Guards And Bruxism

We are here to help your mouth stay healthy and comfortable for many years to come. If you think you might suffer from bruxism, please do not hesitate to reach out to us and ask any questions you may have about night guards. You can schedule an appointment by calling Balboa Dental Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, today at 949-630-0143. We look forward to hearing from you.