NIGHT GUARDS

Do you ever wake up with jaw pain, sore teeth or a headache? It is possible that you are clenching or grinding your teeth at night. Nighttime grinding is also known as bruxism and is considered a sleep-related movement disorder. Although the true cause of bruxism is unknown, most health professionals believe it comes from stress or anxiety. Certain medications may also increase the risk of bruxism. Most patients will have no idea that they are clenching or grinding their teeth at night until symptoms present.

Collectively these symptoms are called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or TMD). If left untreated, bruxism can damage the joint that connects the lower and upper jaw, and cause the teeth to wear down. Occasionally, your dentist will identify wear patterns on your teeth that are associated with bruxism and suggest night guards that can be custom-made to protect your teeth.

Custom night guards are often recommended for patients because it minimizes the effects of grinding the teeth at night. Dental night guards are a common treatment and will protect the teeth from the pressure of clenching and grinding by providing a protective cushion between the upper and lower teeth. At Anthony Martin Dentistry, we specialize in creating custom mouth guards, which will help to prevent the headache and muscle aches associated with clenching and grinding your teeth. Night guards can also prevent pain in the jaw joint associated with the long-term effects of clenching and grinding.

There are several different types of custom night guards that are available so if you find that your symptoms are not relieved by your night guard, we can make a different type of night guard. Anthony Martin Dentistry is dedicated to helping you alleviate any pain or discomfort you have as a result of bruxism.