Wellington Office:
Protect Your Teeth from Bruxism with a Nightguard
If you frequently wake up with jaw pain, earaches, or headaches, or catch yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, you may be dealing with bruxism. This condition is common but can cause significant dental damage if left untreated.
While the exact causes of bruxism are not fully understood, several factors may contribute, including stress, sleep disorders, an abnormal bite, or crooked or missing teeth. Many people are unaware that they grind their teeth, as it typically happens while they’re asleep. If not addressed, bruxism can lead to broken teeth, cracked teeth, damaged restorations, or even tooth loss.
Nightguards for Bruxism
The good news is that nightguards offer an easy and non-invasive treatment for bruxism. These custom-made devices are designed to prevent the wear and tear caused by teeth grinding. A nightguard is made from soft, durable material and is designed to fit over your top or bottom arch, creating a barrier between your teeth to prevent them from making contact while you sleep.
Types of Nightguards and Mouthguards
Choosing the right mouthguard is important. There are three main types:
- Pre-made nightguards: Readily available, but may not offer a perfect fit.
- Boil-and-bite nightguards: Mould to your teeth after being heated, but they may still not offer the same comfort as a custom-made option.
- Custom-made nightguards: Crafted by your dentist specifically for your teeth, ensuring a perfect fit and maximum comfort.
Why Choose a Custom Nightguard?
A custom-made nightguard is the best option for protection. It’s designed to be tear-resistant, comfortable, and well-fitted to your mouth, ensuring it doesn’t interfere with your ability to breathe properly. Plus, it’s easy to clean and maintain, giving you peace of mind that your teeth are protected while you sleep.
The Impact of Misaligned Teeth
Occlusal disease occurs when there’s a misalignment or improper relationship between the upper and lower teeth, also known as malocclusion. If left untreated, occlusal disease can cause significant damage to your teeth, gums, jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints (TMJ), and the bone that supports your teeth.
Many people mistakenly assume that accelerated tooth wear is just a part of aging or normal wear, but it can actually be a sign of occlusal disease. Fortunately, our office can provide treatments to relieve the pain and discomfort caused by this condition.
Signs and Symptoms of Occlusal Disease
Common signs that you may have occlusal disease include:
- Enamel wear or thinning
- Tooth cracking or breakage
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Gum recession
- Loss of bone support around the teeth
- Muscle pain in the jaw or face
- TMJ symptoms, such as clicking, popping, or difficulty moving the jaw
Why Treating Occlusal Disease is Important
Our goal is to preserve your oral health while preventing further damage from occlusal disease. Early treatment helps reduce the long-term impact on your teeth, gums, and jaw. Addressing occlusal disease can lead to optimal oral health, relief from discomfort, and improved success of restorative treatments.
Take Control of Your Oral Health Today
If you’re experiencing symptoms of occlusal disease such as tooth wear, sensitivity, or jaw pain, don’t wait for the condition to worsen. At Modern Dental Smiles, we offer personalized treatments to address misalignment and prevent long-term damage to your teeth and jaw.
Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and learn how we can help restore your smile and relieve discomfort. Our expert team is here to ensure that your oral health remains strong and vibrant for years to come.
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.