Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition in which a person unconsciously clenches their jaw and grinds or clenches their teeth, typically while sleeping. This can lead to jaw pain, headaches, and wear on the teeth. In some cases, treatment such as a dental splint or behavioral therapy may be recommended.
A night guard is a dental device that is worn over the teeth to prevent damage from teeth grinding (bruxism). It is typically made of a soft or hard plastic material and is custom-fitted to the wearer’s teeth to provide a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, which can help to reduce the grinding and clenching that can cause pain and damage. Night guards are often prescribed by dentists as a non-invasive treatment for bruxism, particularly for those who grind their teeth while sleeping.
How do night Guards Prevent Teeth Grinding?
Custom Night guards work by creating a physical barrier between the upper and lower teeth, which helps to prevent the grinding and clenching that can cause damage to the teeth and jaw. When a person grinds their teeth, the force of the jaw clenching can be very strong, and this can cause wear and damage to the teeth over time. By wearing a night guard, the grinding force is absorbed by the device rather than the teeth, reducing the risk of damage.
In addition to reducing the damage caused by grinding, night guards can also help to relieve the associated symptoms of bruxism, such as jaw pain, headaches, and ear pain. The soft material used in many night guards also helps to cushion the jaw, reducing the strain and discomfort associated with clenching.
Night guards are typically custom-fitted to the wearer’s teeth and made of a soft or hard plastic material. The type of night guard that is best suited to a particular individual will depend on the severity of their bruxism and the extent of their teeth grinding. In some cases, a soft night guard may be sufficient, while in others, a hard night guard may be necessary to provide adequate protection.
Overall, night guards for grinding are an effective and non-invasive way to prevent teeth grinding and reduce the associated symptoms and risks. They are a common treatment for bruxism and are often recommended by dentists for people who grind their teeth while sleeping.
How to Reduce Teeth Grinding?
Here are some tips to help avoid or reduce teeth grinding:
Identify and manage stress:
Stress is a common trigger for bruxism, so finding ways to manage stress levels can help reduce teeth grinding. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, can be effective for some people.
Avoid substances that can trigger bruxism:
Caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine can increase the likelihood of grinding your teeth, so try to limit your consumption of these substances.
Practice good sleep hygiene:
Getting enough sleep and establishing a consistent sleep routine can help to reduce the risk of grinding your teeth while you sleep.
Use a warm washcloth or heat pack:
Applying heat to the jaw before bed can help relax the muscles and reduce the likelihood of grinding.
Avoid biting on hard objects:
Biting on hard objects, such as pen tops or fingernails, can cause you to clench your jaw and increase the risk of grinding.
Practice good posture:
Maintaining good posture can help to reduce the strain on the jaw muscles and reduce the likelihood of grinding.
Consider a mouthguard:
If you are unable to reduce your teeth grinding through other means, your dentist may recommend using a custom-fitted night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep.
It is important to note that if you are experiencing symptoms of bruxism, such as jaw pain, headaches, or worn teeth, you should speak to your dentist to determine the best course of treatment.
