A beautiful smile is one of the most captivating features a person can possess. However, repeated teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can not only prematurely age your smile but also lead to various dental health issues, including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Fortunately, a night guard can offer effective relief and protection against these problems. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA, dentist talks about the benefits of using a night guard.
The Impact of Bruxism on Your Oral Health
Bruxism usually occurs during sleep. Over time, this involuntary habit can cause substantial damage to your teeth, leading to premature aging of your smile. Here are some ways in which bruxism can impact your oral health:
- Tooth Wear: Constant grinding will wear down tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. If you’ve already experienced substantial damage we have treatment options, such as dental crowns or veneers, to restore the appearance of your smile.
- Cracked or Chipped Teeth: The excessive force exerted during grinding or clenching can result in cracked or chipped teeth, compromising both the appearance and functionality of your smile.
- Gum Recession: Bruxism can cause gum recession, exposing the roots of your teeth. This not only negatively impacts your smile’s appearance but also makes your teeth more vulnerable to decay and tooth loss. In many cases, we do have options to restore the tissues with gum grafting.
The Connection Between Teeth Grinding and TMJ Disorders
In addition to its impact on your smile, untreated bruxism can lead to various TMJ issues, which affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. This can cause pain and can hinder the proper functioning of your jaw. Some common symptoms of TMD disorders include jaw pain, headaches and earaches, limited jaw movement, and cracking and popping sounds when chewing.
How a Night Guard Can Help
A night guard is a customized dental appliance that fits over your teeth, acting as a protective barrier to alleviate the effects of bruxism. This hard plastic guard acts as a cushion, absorbing the forces of teeth grinding and clenching, preventing tooth wear, cracks, and chips. They are custom-designed to help relax the jaw muscles, reducing tension and minimizing jaw pain and headaches.
Schedule A Consultation Today
Bruxism can have a significant impact on both the appearance of your smile and your overall oral health. If you suspect you have bruxism or are experiencing any related symptoms please contact your Newport Beach, CA dentist’s office at (949) 630-0143 so we can provide you with a custom-made nightguard tailored to your specific needs.
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