The symptoms of nighttime teeth grinding are difficult to miss, but all too often ignored — like headaches, tooth sensitivity, and weak or worn down teeth. Unfortunately, many people don’t seek treatment for the condition we also call bruxism simply because they don’t realize there is an effective solution in sight. But relief is on the way when you visit your dentist in Dublin, Dr. Eric Buck or Dr. Hannah Burton. They and the team at Distinctive Smiles treat nighttime teeth grinding with custom fitted nightguards.
What Causes Nighttime Teeth Grinding?
There are a number of factors that can cause bruxism. Often, teeth grinding and jaw clenching are the result of stress. Crooked or misaligned teeth and facial trauma or injury can also cause the condition. Women are slightly more likely than men to grind their teeth at night, though bruxism can affect anyone at any time.
Watch out for the warning signs of bruxism, which include…
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Frequent waking during sleep
- Teeth grinding observed by a partner
- Tooth sensitivity
- Worn tooth enamel, flattened teeth
- Tingling extremities
Don’t wait to seek treatment for bruxism if you suspect you or a loved one are grinding your teeth at night. Ignored, the pressure and repeated trauma from teeth clenching and grinding can cause significant damage to your smile.
Natural Solutions for Bruxism
If bruxism is the result of stress, your dentist or doctor may first recommend certain techniques to alleviate tension naturally. Vigorous exercise, meditation, yoga, or talk therapy may help to reduce the occurrence of nighttime teeth grinding. Cutting back on alcohol and caffeine can also prevent bruxism and improve quality of sleep.
Some other tips to help keep you from grinding your teeth at night include…
- Place a warm cloth on your TMJ, or jaw, at night before you go to bed. Moist heat relaxes the joint to prevent clenching and grinding.
- Break habits like nail biting and pen chewing, which cause your jaw to be too active during the day.
- Take note of when you are tensing your jaw during the day. Try to hold it in a relaxed position.
When to Seek Professional Treatment
Alongside natural solutions, your dentist may recommend a professional approach with a custom-fitted nightguard. This device performs two vital functions: bringing your jaw into proper alignment while also protecting your tooth enamel from grinding and clenching. The nightguard is small, portable, and created specifically for your dentition for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
The benefits of nightguards for bruxism include:
- A custom fit offers the maximum in comfort
- Portable and easy to use
- Protects the teeth from grinding while also stopping the occurrence of grinding and clenching
- Each nightguard can last for many months with proper care
Get In Touch Today!
Are you or a loved one suffering as a result of nighttime teeth grinding or jaw clenching? Relief is in sight when you visit the family dentist in Dublin. Request an appointment today!