Mouthguards/Nightguards/Bruxism
At Calapooia Family Dental, we specialize in several preventive services designed to protect your teeth from structural damage. One of our most popular treatments involves the fabrication of a custom-fit mouthguard. If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), a mouthguard may be the ideal solution!
What Is Bruxism?
Teeth grinding, or bruxism is a common oral health disorder that affects about 10% of adults and 15% of children. Unless they have a family history of bruxism, most children will outgrow the disorder by the time they reach adulthood. For those that don’t, bruxism can have severe consequences for their teeth and jaws.
Most people with bruxism tend to grind their teeth while they sleep. This grinding can occur numerous times during a single night, which will eventually cause significant wear of the tooth enamel. Bruxism has also been linked to problems with the temporomandibular joint, also known as TMJ disorders.
People who grind their teeth during the day may do so due to stress or anxiety. However, most cases of bruxism are usually related to an abnormal bite or crooked teeth. Regardless of the cause, recognizing the symptoms of teeth grinding is an important part of treating the disorder.
Symptoms of Bruxism
If you grind your teeth during sleep, the initial symptoms of bruxism may be hard to notice. Many of these symptoms are usually reported by a sleep partner. Of course, the best way to find out if you grind your teeth is a consultation visit. Dr. Summers or Dr. Hagerty will look for signs and symptoms during a thorough examination.
Some of the telltale signs include:
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Consistently waking up with a dull headache or sore jaw
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Loud grinding or grating sounds during sleep
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The development of a TMJ disorder, such as inflammation or pain in the jaw
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A change in the way your teeth fit together
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A chip or fracture in a tooth
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Premature enamel wear |
Most people are unaware of these symptoms because they are often subtle and progress slowly. For this reason and more, regular checkups are imperative. Your checkup exam allows us to diagnosis bruxism and monitors its development. Exams also help us determine which treatments are most suitable.
Why Do We Recommend a Mouthguard?
A mouthguard is usually the best line of defense against nocturnal bruxism, or teeth grinding at night. Your night guard, which we custom design using an impression of your mouth, serves as a barrier between your teeth. This plastic appliance keeps your teeth in their proper position while preventing severe enamel wear.
We typically recommend a mouthguard if we notice the preliminary signs of bruxism. In this way, your oral appliance can prevent more significant complications. Without treatment, you may eventually need restorative treatments, such as dental crowns, bridges, and even dentures.
Besides a mouthguard, we may recommend additional tips and treatments. Cutting back on stimulants like caffeine can also reduce teeth grinding. We also suggest habit counseling and stress-reduction techniques, such as training yourself not to clench your jaw during the day.
Schedule a Consultation Today!
Find out if you could benefit from a mouthguard during sleep! Call (541) 936-9222 to schedule your consultation appointment today! |