Occlusal Appliance for Managing Tooth Wear

If you frequently wake up with jaw soreness, ear pain, or headaches, or notice that you clench or grind your teeth, you may be experiencing a common condition known as bruxism.

While the exact cause of bruxism is not fully understood, several factors may play a role. Stress at home, school, or work, sleep disturbances, an improper bite, and crooked or missing teeth can all contribute to this condition. Many people are unaware they grind their teeth because it often happens during sleep. If left untreated, bruxism can result in broken or cracked teeth, damaged dental restorations, and even tooth loss.

Nightguards for the Management of Bruxism

Bruxism can be treated with a simple, non-invasive solution. Nightguards are an effective way to protect your teeth from the wear and damage caused by grinding over time. Custom-made by a dentist from durable yet comfortable materials, a nightguard fits over the upper or lower teeth and prevents direct contact with the opposing teeth.

Selecting the right nightguard is important. There are three main types available: pre-made nightguards, “boil-and-bite” nightguards, and custom-made nightguards provided by our office. When choosing a nightguard, it should be tear-resistant, comfortable, properly fitted, easy to clean, and designed so it does not interfere with breathing.

A custom nightguard made in our office meets all of these standards, as it is designed specifically to fit your teeth and provide optimal comfort and protection.

Protecting Your Bite Understanding Occlusal Disease

Occlusal disease occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t align properly, a condition also called malocclusion. If left untreated, it can cause damage to your teeth, the supporting bone and gums, your jaw joints (TMJ), and the muscles you use for chewing.

Many people assume excessive or unusually fast tooth wear is just a normal part of aging. However, our office can provide treatments to relieve the pain, discomfort, and long-term damage caused by occlusal disease.

How to Recognize Occlusal Disease

Worn or flattened tooth enamel
Cracked or broken teeth
Increased tooth sensitivity
Receding gums
Loss of bone support around teeth
Jaw or facial muscle pain
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort or dysfunction

Our goal is to protect your oral health while planning for the long-term success of any restorative treatments. Addressing occlusal disease helps ensure lasting oral health and maximizes the longevity and effectiveness of your dental restorations.

Explore Our Helpful Video Guides

Understanding Tooth Wear

Learn about the causes and effects of tooth wear and how it impacts your oral health. This video demonstrates how early intervention can help protect your teeth from further damage.

Bruxism (Clenching and Grinding)

This video explains the impact of bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding) on your dental health. Discover how identifying and treating this condition early can help prevent tooth wear and jaw issues.

TMD Condylar Degeneration

Explore how TMD condylar degeneration affects your jaw joint and overall dental health. This video explains the causes, symptoms, and treatments for this condition to maintain optimal jaw function.

Occlusal Appliance for Tooth Wear

Watch how occlusal appliances are used to protect your teeth from wear caused by grinding. This video shows how these devices can help prevent damage and maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Anterior Bite Plane

Learn about the use of an anterior bite plane to prevent damage from teeth grinding. This video explains how it helps align your teeth and reduce pressure on your jaw.

Home Maintenance for Oral Appliances

This video demonstrates how to care for your oral appliances at home. Learn the steps to keep them clean and functional, ensuring they continue to support your dental health effectively.

Equilibration

This video explains the process of equilibration, where your dentist adjusts the bite to ensure your teeth are properly aligned. Learn how this procedure helps improve your bite and prevent future dental issues.