Nightguards help protect against teeth grinding
Nightguards, also known as oral splints, are personalized dental devices created to alleviate tension in the jaw muscles and ligaments resulting from grinding and clenching. Additionally, they serve to safeguard teeth from the wear and damage caused by these habits.
Cause of Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is often considered a sleep disorder as it commonly occurs during sleep. Many individuals are unaware of their teeth grinding until a dentist points it out or they wake up feeling discomfort. The causes of nighttime grinding can vary and may be difficult to determine, but stress and anxiety are frequently cited as contributing factors. Increased levels of stress are known to heighten the likelihood of grinding teeth while asleep.
Other possible causes of teeth grinding include:
- Upper and lower teeth not aligned properly
- Sleep disorders like sleep apnea
- Unhealthy lifestyle choices like drinking alcohol, smoking, and using drugs
Signs that you might be grinding or clenching your teeth at night include:
- Nocturnal grinding noises (often noticed by a partner or family member)
- Occasional tooth or jaw discomfort
- Frequent headaches
- Chips, cracks, or wear on teeth, fillings, or crowns
- Excessive tooth wear
- Increased tooth sensitivity
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