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teeth grinding damages tooth enamel

Nightguards
Mouth Splints or Dental Mouth Guards

Nightguards are custom-fitted plastic appliances that are worn over the teeth to protect them from damage due to clenching or grinding (a condition known as Bruxism).

Bruxism is commonly associated with stress, but can be related to sleep disorders or a poor bite due to misaligned teeth or multiple missing teeth. Because it usually occurs during sleep, it can go unnoticed for years.

Protecting Your Teeth

Extensive grinding can cause severe wear of tooth enamel, making the teeth appear shorter and flattened. Left untreated, bruxism can eventually result in serious damage to the teeth that may require extensive restorative procedures to repair.

Common symptoms of bruxism include headaches, tired or sore facial muscles, and cracked or sensitive teeth.

TMJ Therapy

Nightguards are sometimes recommended during jaw joint (temporomandibular joint/TMJ) therapy to treat dysfunctional joint movement. As part of your complete dental examination, Dr. Dodson will evaluate both jaw joints and each tooth surface to observe for signs of distress and address any problems as needed to keep to your smile healthy and pain-free.

Do you grind and clench your teeth during sleep?

Please Contact Us to learn more about the benefits of nightguards.