Mouthguard
 What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the condition in which you grind your teeth and clench your jaw. Almost everyone grinds their teeth at one point or another, but many times it is not severe enough to cause any health problems. Bruxism becomes an issue when it leads to worn or cracked teeth, jaw and facial pain, earaches, or severe headaches.
There are two types of bruxism, with nocturnal bruxism being the most common. Patients who suffer from nocturnal bruxism may not realize it at first. The symptoms are usually reported by a sleep partner. People who clench or grind their teeth at night are more likely to have other sleep disorders, like sleep apnea and snoring. At Bagley Dental, we offer professionally made mouthguards as an effective treatment for nocturnal bruxism.
Risk Factors and Symptoms of Bruxism
We still do not fully understand the causes of bruxism, but it may be related to physical, genetic, and psychological factors. For instances, there are several factors that can increase your risk of bruxism, some of which include:
| • |
Increased stress levels - Anger, frustration, anxiety, and stress often lead to teeth grinding and jaw clenching.
|
| • |
Age - Young children often report symptoms of bruxism. In many cases, they outgrow the condition by the time they reach adulthood.
|
| • |
Personality - People who have aggressive, hyperactive, or competitive personality types are at an increased risk of bruxism.
|
| • |
Genetics - Studies have shown that bruxism tends to run in families. If you have a family history of bruxism, you may want to take preemptive measures.
|
| • |
Medications and substance use - Certain medications, as well as alcohol use, tobacco use, and caffeinated beverages have all been linked to bruxism.
|
| • |
Other conditions - Bruxism has been associated with some mental health and medical disorders, including dementia, night terrors, ADHD, and sleep apnea. |
Symptoms of bruxism include:
| • |
Teeth grinding loud enough to awaken a partner
|
| • |
Increased tooth pain or sensitivity
|
| • |
Teeth that are worn down fractured or chipped
|
| • |
Neck, jaw, and facial pain
|
| • |
Worn enamel that leads to the exposure of dentin
|
| • |
Disruption of sleep
|
| • |
Lockjaw or tight jaw muscles
|
| • |
Headaches or earaches in the mornings |
Types of Night Guards
If you suffer from bruxism, you may be wondering what form of treatment is best for you. During your consultation appointment, J. Andrew Bagley DDS or W. Ryan Bagley DDS may recommend a night guard. There are three types of night guards:
| • |
Stock mouthguards - This is a store-bought option that comes preformed and ready to wear. While they are inexpensive and easy to find, they do not offer the same advantages of other options. They are bulky, non-adjustable, and provide little or no protection. You may also have difficulty breathing. We do not typically recommend stock mouthguards.
|
| • |
Boil and bite mouthguard - Also a store-bought option, these mouthguards can be adjusted to fit your teeth better. However, the boil and molding process can lead to errors and misalignments.
|
| • |
Custom-fit mouthguard - Hands down the best option to prevent your teeth from grinding and alleviate your symptoms of bruxism. During an appointment, we will take a molded impression of your mouth to fabricate your custom mouthguard using a durable plastic. |
Schedule a Consultation Today!
If you would like to learn more about mouthguards, call (509) 547-1631, and schedule your consultation today! |
