The disorder known as bruxism, which causes people to grind or clench their teeth at sleep, is very common. Sleep problems, stress, sleep disturbances in general, and even some types of medications can all contribute to this unconscious behavior in many adults and even children. Bruxism can have a major effect on oral health and give you a painful jaw or headaches.
It can wear down your tooth enamel, harm your temporomandibular joints, and even cause teeth to break or crack due to excessive pressure! The origins, signs, and consequences of bruxism are discussed in more detail here.
How can your teeth and jaw be protected from wear and tear if you grind your teeth at night? The use of a nightguard is frequently advised by your dentist in San Francisco, CA. Some of the frequently asked questions about nightguard and bruxism are addressed below:
What does a nightguard do? What is the purpose of a nightguard?
A nightguard, which is sometimes referred to as a bruxism appliance, is a small, transparent device that fits over your teeth and is designed to be worn while you sleep. Your teeth are “guarded” from injury when you clench or grind your teeth at night because the nightguard keeps your top and bottom teeth from coming into contact.
Do night guards actually do their jobs?
Yes, to sum up, the response. Because it creates a physical barrier between your teeth, a properly fitted nightguard will protect your tooth enamel from bruxism damage. The additional cushioning it offers can also assist in minimizing jaw pain that often coexists with bruxism.
Wearing a nightguard, is it safe to do so?
Using your nightguard at night is okay as long as it is correctly fitted for you. The best course of action is to have a custom nightguard constructed. As a stock, an off-the-shelf nightguard may be challenging to maintain in place and may interfere with your ability to fall asleep.
Modern digital technology is used in our office to scan your mouth and manufacture a unique appliance in-house in our lab. You may sleep easily and safely because the custom-made nightguard is fitted to your mouth precisely.
Are snoring devices and nightguards the same thing?
We also create personalized snoring appliances, which are slightly different in shape and function from nightguards to shield your teeth from bruxism-related harm.