Nightguards help protect against teeth grinding
Custom-made dental devices called nightguards, or oral splints, are designed to relieve tension in the jaw muscles and ligaments caused by grinding and clenching. They also help protect teeth from wear and damage caused by these habits.
Cause of Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is often classified as a sleep disorder because it usually happens during sleep. Many people are unaware that they grind their teeth until a dentist mentions it or they wake up feeling discomfort. The reasons for nighttime grinding can be diverse and hard to pinpoint, but stress and anxiety are commonly identified as contributing factors. Higher levels of stress typically increase the chances 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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