What is Bruxism
Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, affects roughly 30 to 40 million Americans. Bruxism can have a variety of causes, from stress and anxiety to malocclusions (misaligned bites). In rare cases, bruxism can be the result of certain diseases or medications. More often than not, most people are unaware that they suffer from bruxism because it happens during sleep. This is referred to as nocturnal bruxism.
If it remains untreated, it can cause the outer layers of the enamel to wear away. It can also damage existing dental fillings or crowns. Therefore, it is important to treat the disorder before it causes major damage.
Those with bruxism may experience the following symptoms:
- TMJ disorders or pain in the jaw
- Swelling on the side of the lower jaw
- Damaged teeth or broken dental appliances
- Persistent facial pain
- Rhythmic contractions of the jaw muscles
- Morning headaches
- Grinding sounds during sleep, usually reported by a sleep partner
- Pain or discomfort when opening the mouth
Need a Dental Appointment?
Why You May Need a Night Guard
A night guard is one of the best ways to treat nocturnal bruxism. The plastic appliance shields your enamel from the pressures of your bite. It may take you some time to get used to your night guard, but after about a week, it will begin to feel normal. Because it is custom-fit, you should not experience any pain or discomfort. If you choose not to wear a night guard, you might be putting yourself at risk for serious complications later down the line. Stress-reduction techniques are also a popular way to reduce the harmful effects of bruxism.
What to Expect When Getting a Custom Night Guard at Our Houston Office
During your initial appointment, we will begin by discussing any symptoms of bruxism you have been experiencing and examining your teeth. To create a customized appliance for your teeth, we will take detailed impressions, which are then sent to a specialized dental lab.
Once the appliance is ready, you will return for a second visit. Our experts check the fit of the night guard, ensuring it rests comfortably and securely. Before you leave, our team will give you helpful instructions on how to wear and care for your night guard on a daily basis.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long do night guards or mouth guards last?
Are mouth guards comfortable to wear?
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Schedule a Consultation
Before bruxism impacts the health of your teeth and gums, visit our practice for customized mouth guards/night guards in Houston, TX. Call us at (713) 782-3123 to book an appointment today.
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