Grinding the teeth and clenching the jaw is an issue that affects many patients. The condition is also called bruxism and can occur while patients are awake or sleeping. When patients grind their teeth in their sleep, they may not even be aware of the issue. When bruxism remains untreated, it can cause damage to the teeth and result in other oral health issues.
Dental professionals check for signs of bruxism in patients during routine examinations. When they start to notice signs of clenching and grinding, a night guard is often recommended. Night guards help to protect the teeth from damage caused by the extreme forces of grinding. The night guards are an excellent solution for alleviating pain, sensitivity, and preventing other issues. Depending on the type of night guard the patient uses, it can be an expensive investment. While it is rare, it is possible for night guards to cause damage in some cases.
Night Guards
A night guard is a thin, plastic dental appliance that fits directly over the teeth. There are different types of night guards that can range from over-the-counter products to custom devices that are created by dental professionals. The night guard works by absorbing a majority of the forces from clenching and grinding. Over time, patients may notice the development of grooves in the night guard where it is absorbing the pressure that would otherwise be placed on the teeth. The guards are often effective in preventing serious damage to the teeth.
Treatment
A night guard is the preferred treatment for bruxism. Although night guards are effective, they actually address the symptoms of bruxism and prevent damage to the teeth from clenching and grinding. The underlying cause of the issue typically remains untreated as the bruxism still exists.
Causes
There are various causes of bruxism, such as anxiety and stress, but there is not always a specific reason for the grinding and clenching. In some cases, teeth grinding is due to sleep apnea, which can be a serious condition. When a night guard is prescribed for teeth grinding, which is actually caused by sleep apnea, the damage to the teeth is addressed, but the sleep apnea condition remains.
Bite
Although it is quite rare, in some cases, night guards have left patients with an open bite. This can result in the need for costly and time-consuming orthodontic treatments. These cases are not typical, but the dentist should monitor the teeth for any shift in the patient’s bite. A night guard can put pressure on the teeth and gradually alter the patient’s bite. Patients who have gum disease are at an increased risk of bite issues related to the use of a night guard, as their tooth structure is often weak.
Risks
Patients who purchase an over-the-counter bite guard should be diligent in monitoring their bite, as the devices are not always made with high-quality materials. Over-the-counter night guards may also have a poor fit and cause other issues or discomfort.
Contact the office today if you suspect you may be affected by bruxism. Our team can schedule an appointment to determine if you may be a good candidate for a custom night guard or other treatment options to ensure your teeth are protected.