A night guard, a specialized type of mouth guard, serves a crucial role in addressing dental issues such as bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, and TMJ disorders. If you suspect you may be suffering from these or similar conditions, our dentists might recommend a night guard to safeguard your teeth from damage and mitigate the effects of grinding while you sleep.
Oftentimes, individuals with bruxism remain unaware of their condition since it primarily occurs during sleep. Recognizing the signs of nighttime teeth clenching and grinding is essential:
- Chronic Jaw, Facial and Ear Pain: Regular discomfort in the jaw, face or ears can be indicative of bruxism.
- Morning Jaw Tightness: Waking up with a tired or tight feeling in the jaw is a common sign of nighttime teeth clenching.
- Frequent Tension Headaches and Migraines: Bruxism can contribute to persistent headaches and migraines.
- Excessive Tooth Wear: Teeth may become chipped, flattened, cracked or significantly worn due to grinding.
- Worn Tooth Enamel: Grinding can wear down tooth enamel, exposing the inner layers of the tooth.
- Tongue Indentations: If you notice indentations on the sides of your tongue, it may be due to clenching.
- Increased Tooth Sensitivity: Bruxism can lead to heightened tooth sensitivity.
Bruxism shares many symptoms with TMJ disorders: specifically a locked or stuck jaw; you are unable to option your mouth widely; you experience pain when chewing and biting; you experience pain in your neck, shoulders and ears; or hear grinding, popping or clicking sounds when moving your mouth.
If you observe any of these signs, a custom night guard could prove beneficial. This night guard is tailored to fit your unique smile comfortably and effectively, allowing you to sleep peacefully while protecting your teeth. Our dentists will work with you to evaluate your teeth, mouth and jaw and make a diagnosis so that we can provide you with the right treatment for your needs.
We encourage you to reach out to Skippack Implant & Family Dentistry at 610-222-8189 today to learn more about night guards in Skippack, Pennsylvania, and schedule your consultation with Dr. Sumit Moradia or Dr. Priyang Chaudhari. Your dental health is our priority, and we are committed to providing you with the best possible care for your smile.