Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common problem seen in dental practices. In fact, many people have this condition and do not realize it because it tends to happen while sleeping. Over time, this habit can damage teeth, cause jaw pain, and lead to other problems, making getting the right treatment crucial.
Even though bruxism can happen anytime, it tends to happen at night while people are sleeping. Most people will experience the symptoms and not realize they are caused by teeth grinding. Common symptoms include headaches, sore jaw, and teeth that feel loose or sensitive. In some cases, a partner may hear the grinding sound during the night. Even if there is no pain at first, the pressure from grinding can slowly wear down tooth enamel and lead to more serious issues.
A dentist or hygienist at a dental practice can spot signs of teeth grinding during a regular exam. The provider will look for flat or worn-down teeth, small cracks, or changes in how the teeth fit together. The dentist may also ask about jaw pain, tightness, or trouble opening the mouth. These signs can help confirm if a patient is grinding their teeth.
The most common way a dental practice helps with teeth grinding is by fitting a patient for a custom nightguard. A nightguard is a soft or firm piece of plastic that fits over the teeth. It is worn during sleep to stop the teeth from rubbing against each other. This helps protect the enamel, reduce pain, and prevent damage.
Some stores sell one-size-fits-all mouthguards, but they do not always work well. A dental practice will take an impression of the patient's teeth and send it to a lab. There, a technician makes a nightguard that is shaped just for the patient's teeth. This custom fit helps the nightguard stay in place and feel more comfortable. It also better protects the teeth and jaw.
Wearing a nightguard does more than stop tooth damage. It can also help with jaw pain and lower the risk of problems with the jaw joint. This joint, called the TMJ (temporomandibular joint), can become sore or stiff from too much grinding. A nightguard from a dental practice helps relax the jaw and reduce strain.
A dental practice does more than provide a nightguard. The dentist may check how the teeth and bite change over time. Follow-up visits help make sure the nightguard still fits well and works properly. If there are signs of stress, tooth wear, or jaw pain, the dentist makes adjustments to keep the mouth healthy.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Practice in Union City, CA
Teeth grinding can be hard to notice, but a custom nightguard can make a big difference. A dental practice can provide the care needed to stop damage and reduce pain. Trust our team at Nuvo Dental to protect your teeth while you sleep.
Request an appointment or call Nuvo Dental at 510-402-2049 for an appointment in our Union City office.
Many adults have some anxiety or fear when visiting a dental practice. Unfortunately, that prevents many people from receiving enough care. That can damage your oral health. The good news is there are some things you can do to mitigate your fears. Keep reading to learn more.Many things describe dental phobia. Patients might call it…
While most people visit a dental practice every six months, others only go on occasion or not at all. For those individuals, the thought of seeing a dentist causes a lot of anxiety. Hopefully, the information provided about how a dentist treats a cavity will answer questions and put them at ease. These people will…
Many times, a dental practice will recommend avoiding smoking because of the negative effect on the teeth. Smoking can lead to many dental issues. Having a healthy smile is critical, but smoking can reduce the patient’s ability to do so. Keep reading to learn more about tobacco and the teeth.Tobacco and smoking can stain the…