Clenching and grinding your teeth, called bruxism, is an extremely common issue that affects millions of Americans every year. However, even though it is common, that does not mean that it cannot have a significant impact on your oral health and overall wellbeing. That's why
Dr. Stan Kovtun offers patients in Brookline, MA comfortable, customized mouthguards for teeth grinding and clenching.
Symptoms of bruxism
Many patients may not even know they are grinding and clenching because it typically occurs during sleep. The most common symptom that is identifiable by a dentist is uneven wear and tear on your teeth, which occurs because the forces that clenching and grinding place on your teeth are greater than the forces they are designed to withstand. Other symptoms of bruxism can include:
- Pain or tenderness in your jaw
- Headaches
- Tooth sensitivity
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder symptoms
- Broken or damaged dental restorations
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Receding gums
Bruxism can have several underlying causes. Many people blame stress or anxiety, which are indeed factors that can contribute to bruxism, but other factors such as a misaligned bite or sleep apnea can also lead to its development.
Custom mouthguards: a simple but effective solution for bruxism
Treating bruxism is important to preserve your oral health and reduce the forces that are being placed on your teeth, jaw, and sensitive joints. Fortunately, custom-made, professional-grade mouthguards are a simple solution that is highly effective. Molds of your teeth are used to create the mouthguard for a comfortable, snug fit. The mouthguard is made from a BPA-free, durable material that can help offset the forces of clenching and grinding, while remaining comfortable in your mouth. Over time, the mouthguard helps to gently reposition your mouth for healthier jaw joints, and it also trains your mouth to naturally maintain a healthier position with your lips closed, but teeth open.
If you suspect you grind your teeth at night, call Dr. Kovtun at Alpha Plus™ Dental Center to learn more about custom mouthguards and whether one is right for you. Our Brookline, MA office can be reached at [phone].
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