Teeth grinding and jaw clenching are issues for countless people and can lead to bone loss (among other issues). While the warning signs may be obvious in certain cases, some people don’t experience any symptoms at all until the issue has become severe. The best way to be certain is to visit the dentist regularly. Your dentist may recommend a night guard, a simple and straightforward solution to the complications caused by teeth grinding.

A mouth guard not only prevents your teeth from grinding together, it also keeps your jaw from clenching completely. This gives your jaw muscles some relief and can also prevent headaches. In addition, a night guard takes pressure off the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding muscles and gives you an even bite.

Teeth grinding isn’t just tough on your muscles, it scrapes away at your tooth structure, making your teeth more susceptible to fractures. Telltale signs your dentist will recognize are flattening, divots, chipping and small fractures.

If you find yourself grinding your teeth during the day, chances are you do it in your sleep as well. However, just because you don’t grind your teeth during the day doesn’t mean you don’t grind them at night. Over 40 million Americans suffer from teeth grinding, otherwise known as bruxism. Are you one of them?

If you want to know more about saving your teeth from the harms of grinding, we’re happy to help talk with you about solutions, including a custom-fit night guard. Call us today to book an appointment and we can get you on the way to a brighter, healthier smile.