Bruxism is a condition that is defined as subconscious grinding or clenching of the teeth, particularly while sleeping. Numerous known causes for this condition include anxiety, stress, and other factors tied to our mental state. Grinding our teeth can be destructive and significantly impact the health of our smile. Further, it can lead to the development of issues with our temporomandibular joint, dental damage, and issues with our jaw. A properly fitted night guard can protect our teeth from nighttime grinding and prevent additional damage to our teeth and other oral structures.
Learn How Night Guards Can Protect Your Smile
Dentistry was originally focused primarily on treating teeth. However, as the industry advanced, it became clear that whole oral health was the province of dental care. The health of our jaw and the related joints have been an essential part of oral health care for many years. The importance of treating these areas has become clear as we discovered that the consequences of these conditions could extend to our jaw, head, neck, and even our shoulders. Bruxism can be a serious concern for our oral health. Signs that we may be clenching or grinding our teeth at night can include:
- Morning headaches
- Teeth that become chipped or broken with no discernable cause
- Neck pain
- Dental sensitivity
- Changes in our bite that cause our teeth not to fit together properly
- Issues with opening or closing the mouth, biting, and chewing
- Ear pain
- Jaw pain
- Clicking or popping noises in the jaw
- Migraines or headaches throughout the day
If these symptoms are familiar, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Cole and the team at Wyngate Dental of Bethesda. You’ll undergo a complete evaluation of nighttime clenching and grinding signs during your visit. As part of this process, you’ll discuss your symptoms, and a dental impression may be taken. This impression will allow a thorough assessment of the state of your teeth and make it easier to identify areas of wear and damage consistent with bruxism.
Your impressions’ product will be sent to a dental lab to create a properly fitted night guard. The resulting night guard will be properly fitted and designed to protect your teeth throughout the night. In some cases, Dr. Cole will provide additional information to ensure that your night guard precisely meets your oral health needs.
Caring for your night guard is an important part of ensuring that it remains in good condition and can properly protect your teeth. This will require daily cleaning of your night guard so that it will be able to be worn each night. During your dental visits, Dr. Cole will assess the night guard for any visible damage.
Treat Your Bruxism Nightguards from Wyngate Dental of Bethesda
You must take action the moment you notice any signs of bruxism. Left untreated, it can produce increasingly severe consequences for your oral health. You can reach us at 301-530-8008 to schedule an appointment and evaluation. You can also come by our office at 5648 Shields Drive, Bethesda, MD, to meet the staff and get a tour of the office before your appointment date.
