Custom Nightguards in Thornton

Occlusal Splints/Night Guards

person sleeping in bed Do you grind or clench your teeth at night? These involuntary and unconscious habits tend to happen while you’re asleep.
As a result, many individuals are unaware they have these habits until someone complains about the noise they make during sleep, or until they suffer from a noticeable dental problem.

The medical term for grinding or clenching is bruxism. This oral health problem can cause substantial damage to teeth, gums, and to the jaw joints that are responsible for moving the lower jaws.

Possible Signs and Symptoms of Teeth Grinding

Persistent headache
Increased tooth sensitivity
Worn or chipped teeth
Facial muscle pain

Earache
Fractured fillings
Difficulty opening your mouth

Treatment for Teeth Grinding

The treatment for bruxism is generally simple and non-invasive. It focuses on preventing your teeth from coming into contact so you don’t clench and grind anymore.

Thornton Dental can provide you with a custom-made splint or nightguard to address your grinding issues. Nightguards and splints are generally made from a thermoplastic material, which fits comfortably over your teeth and puts your jaw into a more relaxed position.

Some patients only need to wear the dental appliance for a short while in order to break the habit. Others may need to wear the splint or nightguard in the longer term. If you suspect that you might be suffering from stress, these dental appliances may be helpful to reduce your stress levels.

Why Do People Grind Their Teeth?

There is no single cause for bruxism. However, studies have found that 70 per cent of teeth grinding is caused by stress. When under stress, a person’s shoulder unconsciously hunch up, the head moves slightly forward, and the teeth clench. As a result, a natural reflex is to clench and grind the teeth together.

A hyperactive personality may be another cause of bruxism. The links between teeth grinding and hyperactive personality include excessive nervous energy released through grinding or clenching. Individuals with ADHD have greater levels of stress, a proven cause of grinding.

Teeth Grinding Solutions

Though there is no cure, bruxism can be easily managed and treated. By using our high-quality custom made nightguards or splints as well as doing stress management techniques and performing jaw exercises, patients with bruxism can improve their symptoms and prevent major dental work or treatments.
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Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.

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