How To Win The Battle With Bruxism
Do you wake up in the morning with your jaw hurting? Does your sleeping partner complain of the squeaking sound of your grinding your teeth in your sleep? Do you occasionally wake up and discover that you have chipped your teeth or that the surfaces of your teeth are becoming increasingly smoothed/flattened? You may be suffering from bruxism, a condition which is defined as the grinding or clenching of your jaw and teeth while you sleep. Bruxism can result in damage to your teeth and jaw, but it is manageable with a night guard.
What Causes Bruxism?
In some cases, bruxism can be caused by stress resulting in the grinding and clenching of the jaw that occurs at night. In some patients, there’s no obvious source of the condition, but in both cases, there is a way to manage it, so it doesn’t impact your oral health. The most common treatment for bruxism is the nightly wearing of a night-guard by the patient. This helps to reduce the amount of pressure that the jaw can apply to the upper and lower jaws, as well as providing a cushion between the teeth themselves to prevent damage caused by wear.
Are Night Guards Expensive?
Night guards tend to cost more than $100 if you get one specifically designed for Bruxism. For those with the means, it’s best to get these styles of night guard as they are custom fitted to your teeth and specifically designed for the degree of bruxism you suffer from. There are also guards that are light and wearable during day to day activities for those who suffer from daytime grinding. In a pinch, athletic mouth guards have been used as a substitute by some people, by they aren’t as reliable, durable, or comfortable to wear as a proper night guard.
Are There Other Treatments For Bruxism?
The only other treatment for bruxism is for those who have stress as a source. For these people, the only reliable method is the reduction of the stress that causes it in the first place. In some cases working with a counselor can be beneficial, in others, the addition of deep breathing practices, reading, yoga, and even massage can aid you in reducing or eliminating bruxism. Speak to your physician, psychiatrist, and dentist about this condition to see what options are appropriate for your case.
Thousands of people live with bruxism and work with their dentists to manage it before it causes lasting damage to their teeth. If you’re one of those who suffers from this condition, or you suspect that you might, contact your dentist today and schedule an assessment. Dr. Shadi Heidarian at Heritage Park Dental has been working with their patients to help with dental issues like bruxism, cavities, and orthodontics in the Palo Alto, CA area, and is ready to see you today! Don’t let stress control your life and damage your dental health when one simple phone call can put you on the path to a future with a lasting, beautiful smile.
