(732) 863-3899Bruxism, or teeth grinding is a condition that is often caused subconsciously by tension or stress. Worse yet, it often occurs when you’re sleeping, so it’s difficult to simply stop doing it on your own. The good news is that a custom nightguard from Nu Dental Eatontown can help both protect your teeth from the damage of grinding as well as cushion your jaw, so it’s kept more comfortable when you do grind them during sleep.
Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding is a condition that affects up to 31% of the general population, with an estimated 10 to 15% of adults suffering from sleep grinding. Often caused by stress, because this condition frequently occurs during sleep it can be nearly impossible to stop without assistance. In fact, patients often aren’t even aware they have bruxism until their dentist discovers signs of wear and damage during their routine dental exams.
Signs that you may have bruxism include worn, chipped, or cracked teeth, unexplained jaw pain or stiffness, and waking up with a headache.
Nightguards are a proven way to help alleviate some of the pain and pressure of teeth grinding. First, you’ll need to schedule a consultation with your dentist for an evaluation. If you are diagnosed with bruxism, you can then be fitted for a custom nightguard that is made to fit your individual mouth. These small, comfortable devices work by providing cushion to your jaw when you grind your teeth, thereby protecting both the jaw and your smile. With time, you may even clench your jaw less frequently because it is in a more comfortable, relaxed position.
There are many benefits to wearing a nightguard, including:
Additionally, nightguards are convenient to use, easy to clean, and can even fit comfortably in an overnight bag, backpack or purse for travel. Plus, protecting your smile won’t just prevent unnecessary pain, it can also save you money on costly dental repairs and restorations due to grinding-related damage.