Mouth Guards Bring Relief From Teeth Grinding

Teeth Grinding

Did you know that a mouth guard can be just the ticket to bring relief from teeth grinding? It's true.

Grinding can be a problem for many people. Technically known as bruxism, grinding has several causes. Stress, crooked molars, abnormal bites, and sleep disorders may all play a part in night-time grinding.

Grinding can have devastating effects on your oral health. Mild to medium grinding can wear down tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Severe grinding can actually create fractures.

Not everyone immediately realizes they have been grinding thier molars at night unless a disgruntled spouse wakes them up to tell them so. Dull morning headaches and sore jaws may be your first clue that you are grinding during the night.

Don't despair, there is something that can help prevent your grinding. First see your dentist and if he confirms your suspicions of grinding, he may recommend the use of a mouth guard.

Mouth guards are soft plastic devices that slip over your teeth and prevent your molars from touching. Athletes frequently wear mouth guards to protect theirs from injury during sporting events. Dentists recommend mouth guards as night-time wear for grinders.

Mouth guards are available in three main types:

A. Stock Mouth Guards may be purchased at any sporting goods store. These mouth guards are basically one size fits all, but can be very bulky and uncomfortable. And if it doesn't fit well enough, you probably won't wear it.

B. Boil and Bite Mouth Guards offer the opportunity for a better fitting mouth guard. Made from thermoplastic material, this mouth guard can be soaked in hot water until softened, then inserted into your mouth and molded against your teeth for a more custom fit.

These better mouth guards are also available at most sporting goods stores.

C. Custom Mouth Guards are most often recommended by dentists. Your dentist will take an impression of your molars, and send it to a lab for construction. Though more expensive, this type of mouth guard will provide the ultimate fit, and if your mouth guard fits properly, you'll wear it more.

Mouth guards really can bring some relief from nocturnal grinding. If you suspect you have been grinding during the night, see your dentist and ask if a mouth guard can help your situation.