Night Guards
Do You Grind Your Teeth?
Dr. Christine Grant will examine your entire mouth and ask you several questions to determine if you grind your teeth. Most people grind their teeth in their sleep and don’t even know they’re doing it. Grinding of the teeth is a medical condition known as bruxism. Over time, bruxism will result in the wearing down of your natural tooth enamel. Losing the outer enamel layer exposes the softer dentin layer of your teeth. Once the protective enamel has been heavily worn and damaged, the softer dentin layer wears at an even accelerated rate. This can lead to severe damage to your teeth, gums and temporomandibular joint.
What Is a Night Guard?
A mouth guard is often recommended to protect your teeth from the damages caused by grinding habits. Because most people grind their teeth at night and wear this appliance at night, it is often times called a night guard. A night guard is a custom-fitted appliance made of plastic to fit over your teeth. While the hard outer layer is strong, durable and provides protection of your teeth; the soft inner layer hugs the teeth and provides comfort. Dr. Grant will decide if either an upper one or lower one is best for you. Regular use of a night guard will reduce the risk of wear and tear on your existing healthy teeth and restorations.
Damage Caused by Teeth Grinding
- Chipped teeth and fillings
- Flattened, grooved and worn-down teeth
- Loosened teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Periodontal (gum) problems
- Damaged restorations (crowns and fillings)
- Jaw joint disease
Symptoms of Grinding Your Teeth
- A sore, tired jaw
- Sensitive teeth
- Loose teeth
- Earaches
- Headaches
- Neck aches
- Clicking sounds of your jaw joint
Dr. Grant’s Treatment for Grinding Habits
A removable appliance custom fitted to your teeth that protects your teeth from grinding.
Dr. Grant will check your bite and assess whether or not your teeth hit evenly. Correcting your bite can reduce chances of grinding.
Reducing your stress may lessen your chances of grinding.
Some patients may need medication in addition to a night guard. It may help reduce sore facial and jaw muscles or reduce stress.
Sometimes crowns are needed to repair severely damaged teeth caused by grinding. When the teeth get shorter and muscles become sore, Dr. Grant can open the bite and restore the teeth to a more natural and healthy condition.
Protect Your Teeth From the Grind With Mouth Guards
Prevent damage from grinding your teeth by calling The Hyde Park Center for Aesthetic Dentistry – Christine Grant D.M.D., P.A. in Tampa, Florida today at 813-251-1548.