Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common yet often overlooked condition that can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated. For residents of North York, understanding the significance of night guards in preventing the damaging effects of teeth grinding is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. Night guards are custom-made dental appliances designed to protect your teeth from the excessive forces exerted during grinding or clenching while you sleep. This article delves into the importance of night guards as recommended by North York dentistry and how they help safeguard your teeth against the harmful effects of bruxism.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the medical term for involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, typically during sleep (nocturnal bruxism) but occasionally while awake (awake bruxism). Although the exact reason behind bruxism is unclear, it has been linked to stress and anxiety, abnormal bite sleep disorders along some lifestyle factors such as heavy alcohol drinking or high-caffeinated beverages. When left untreated, this condition can cause major dental problems such as tooth wear, fractures, and even gingival recession or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction later in life.
The Role of Night Guards
Night guards act as a cushion between the upper and lower teeth so that there is no direct contact — they help to soften the blow of grinding. That is usually the case with these dental devices made up of robust and durable materials such as acrylic that can cope easily with forces being generated due to bruxism. Designed to Fit Custom-fitted by a dentist, night guards are made specifically for you and hug all the unique contours of your mouth.
Some of the benefits you get to reap with night guards:
Prevent Dental Damage
Night guards work to shield your teeth from the rapid wear and tear of grinding. If not prevented with a night guard, over time the constant friction will erode enamel resulting in an increased sensitivity to cold or hot food and even at times causing chips or fractures. Night guards essentially put a buffer between your teeth to preserve enamel and prevent significant wear.
Reduction of Pain in the Face and Headaches:
The continual muscular tension that results from grinding causes headaches and face discomfort in many bruxism sufferers. By easing the jaw muscles and avoiding the clenching and grinding that lead to muscular fatigue, night guards can lessen these symptoms.
Improvement in Sleep Quality:
Through sleepless nights, bruxism can disturb you; ensuring that little energy and attention towards the rest of your day. Night guards help stop teeth grinding, thereby contributing to an individual being able to sleep better and wake up feeling well-rested.
Prevention of Gum Recession:
Gum recession, when the hard tissue pulls away from your teeth and exposes roots is another byproduct of grinding because you apply a lot more force than normal as well. This not only leads to cavities but also sensitivity in some cases. Night guards help to dissipate the pressure and prevent damage to gums.
In the prevention of damage from teeth grinding, night guards are among those things that have a very special role to play. If you are a resident of North York, the costs may be even more expensive as buying a custom appliance can save vulnerable teeth from damage over the long term, relieve jaw pain, and improve your quality of sleep — all while saving hundreds or thousands on having to have dental work done. If you have the symptoms of bruxism or think that it might be grinding your teeth at night, contact your dentist today to find out how a night guard could help keep your oral health in check.