While it is not uncommon for an individual to grind or clench their teeth during their life, if it becomes a reoccuring event then it can risk damaging your oral health. Our dentists in Whitby are here to help discuss treatment options if you feel that you or somebody you know suffers from persistent tooth grinding or clenching.
Bruxism is the term used for the act of grinding and clenching your teeth. Many people may be unaware of the fact that they do this, due to the fact that some people only grind their teeth while sleeping. This is called “nocturnal bruxism” or “sleep-related bruxism” and may only be recognizable by soreness the following morning or eventual damage. However, bruxism does not only occur during the night, it is possible for patients to habitually grind or clench their teeth during the day. Both of these types of bruxism are often caused by factors such as stress, changes in one’s lifestyle, or even genetic factors.
The risk of bruxism is largely due to the fact that repeated wear can damage dental restorations such as fillings or crowns, or even natural teeth. This damage can occur by wearing down the outer layers of enamel and result in tooth sensitivity or shortened teeth. Additionally, issues can occur outside the mouth through symptoms such as a sore neck, tension headaches or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. In some instances, your dentist may recommend a night guard or mouthguard to help discourage grinding or reduce the risk of further damage. These oral appliances are often made in a lab and customized to the individual’s mouth.
In addition to nightguard that are used to protect teeth from grinding and clenching, mouthguards can also be used to protect the teeth from injury due to grinding and from sports. Mouthguards are recommended for both adults and children who play certain contact or non-contact sports. They can reduce the risk of potential mouth-related injuries to the lips, tongue, and soft tissues of the mouth. Similarly, mouth guards are also a great solution for adults or children who grind their teeth at night. Nocturnal bite plates or bite splints are types of mouthguards made specifically to prevent tooth damage caused by teeth grinding at night.
Book an appointment with us at Whitby Smile Centre, to learn more about mouthguards and discuss how to get them fitted at our dental office.
