Some habits, voluntary or not, directly affect the health of the structures of the mouth. Bruxism (grinding your teeth at night) is one of them. This reflex can disturb the sleep of those who suffer from it, and also affects the condition of the teeth and the temporomandibular joints, among other things.
To control bruxism and limit its effects, Clinique dentaire Saint-Étienne offers a personalized solution: the night guard.
What is bruxism?
It is the name given to the contraction of the jaw muscles at times when it is neither necessary nor called for. It may or may not be accompanied by side-to-side movements (grinding). Although it is often referred to as night-time tooth grinding, bruxism can occur while awake or asleep. It is, however, more damaging during sleep, since the clenching cannot be controlled. It can nevertheless be detected through its various effects.
The effects of bruxism
- Abnormal wear of the enamel, which can cause dentin hypersensitivity;
- Wear of, or even damage to, the crown of a tooth;
- Tooth pain;
- Pain in the jaw muscles and joints;
- Headaches and neck stiffness, mainly in the morning;
- A grinding noise that disturbs the sleep of the bruxer’s partner;
- Chronic fatigue.
Can bruxism be controlled?
Although science has linked stress and bruxism, its exact causes are still unknown. For this reason, it cannot be stopped completely. Its effects can, however, be limited by taking steps that promote sleep (reducing stress, eliminating sources of light and noise, avoiding alcohol, etc.). Wearing a night guard, an appliance offered by your dentists in Saint-Étienne (Lévis), also helps.
The benefits of a night guard
It reduces the intensity of bruxism
A night guard is a custom-made appliance worn between the teeth at night. It helps relax the jaw muscles, reducing how often and how hard bruxism episodes occur. It also limits joint pain and fatigue.
It protects the teeth and mouth
The night guard also acts as a protective barrier between the teeth. Upper and lower teeth can no longer rub together, which protects them from premature wear and damage. It also helps balance the forces on the temporomandibular joints.
It improves quality of life
By reducing the intensity of bruxism and protecting against its effects, it improves sleep, which becomes more restful. As a result, related aches (headaches, neck or tooth pain, etc.) decrease, making for better days!