Do you often wake up with a sore jaw or headaches? Have you noticed wear and tear on your teeth? If so, you might be experiencing bruxism, a condition characterised by teeth grinding and clenching, often during sleep. Bruxism can lead to a host of dental issues, including worn enamel, chipped teeth, jaw pain, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. However, there’s a simple solution that can help alleviate these symptoms and protect your smile: mouthguards. A dentist Annandale explains more:
Understanding Bruxism
Before diving into how mouthguards can help, let’s understand bruxism better. Bruxism can occur due to various factors, including stress, anxiety, misaligned teeth, or sleep disorders. Many individuals may not even be aware that they grind their teeth because it often happens during sleep. Over time, this unconscious habit can lead to significant dental problems and discomfort.
How Mouthguards Work
Mouthguards, also known as night guards or occlusal splints, are dental devices designed to protect your teeth from the effects of bruxism. They are typically made of durable materials such as soft plastic or acrylic and are custom-fitted to your mouth by a dentist. The primary function of a mouthguard is to create a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding against each other.
Prevention of Tooth Damage
One of the key benefits of wearing a mouthguard is the prevention of tooth damage caused by bruxism. The guard absorbs the force generated by clenching and grinding, reducing the impact on your teeth. Without a mouthguard, the constant pressure and friction can wear down the enamel, leading to sensitivity, fractures, and even tooth loss over time. By providing a cushioning barrier, mouthguards help preserve the integrity of your teeth and maintain their health.
Alleviation of Jaw Pain and Tension
According to an emergency dentist Annandale, Bruxism often leads to jaw pain, facial muscle tension, and headaches, especially upon waking up in the morning. The repetitive motion of clenching and grinding can strain the muscles in your jaw and face, causing discomfort and fatigue. Mouthguards help alleviate these symptoms by promoting relaxation of the jaw muscles and reducing the intensity of grinding. By providing a cushioning layer between your teeth, mouthguards minimise the impact on your jaw joints, thus relieving pain and tension.
Protection Against TMJ Disorders
In severe cases, untreated bruxism can contribute to the development of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. The TMJ is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, and excessive grinding and clenching can put undue stress on this joint, leading to inflammation, pain, and restricted movement. Mouthguards help prevent the progression of TMJ disorders by reducing the strain on the jaw joints and promoting proper alignment of the jaw muscles.
Customisation and Comfort
One of the advantages of custom-fitted mouthguards is their superior comfort and fit compared to over-the-counter options. A dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create a mouthguard that conforms precisely to the contours of your mouth. This customisation ensures a snug and comfortable fit, allowing you to wear the guard throughout the night without discomfort or irritation.
If you suspect that you may be grinding your teeth or experiencing bruxism-related symptoms, search for “dentist near me” online and consult with the expert to determine whether a mouthguard is right for you. Investing in a mouthguard today can safeguard your smile and promote better oral health in the long run.
