Teeth Grinding
Bruxism is the clenching and grinding of teeth that mostly occurs during sleep and times of stress.
Teeth grinding may be related to normal growth and development, especially in cases where children’s teeth don’t fit together correctly.
Many pre-schoolers grind their teeth until their permanent teeth come through around age six. However when adults grind their teeth they cause an abnormal amount of wear to their permanent teeth.
Bruxism can result in:
- short worn teeth
- dislodging of fillings, and cracking or chipping of your natural teeth
- increased tooth sensitivity to hot and cold
- loose teeth
- headache / facial pain / jaw pain / earache due to muscle contractions
- breakage of restorations
A custom made acrylic night guard can absorb the grinding forces while you are sleeping and prevent further damage to your teeth and fillings. Night guards are made from impressions of your teeth and made from a durable plastic. They are designed to keep your jaw still and put your jaw muscles in a more relaxed state.
If you or your partner have noticed you grind your teeth whilst sleeping, mention this at your next dental check up and we will assess if a night guard may benefit you.
