If you think you might be grinding your teeth at night, you should discuss treatment options with your dentist. Here are five signs that you need to start wearing a night guard.
1. Headaches
Bruxism doesn’t only harm your oral health; it also causes additional pain issues such as headaches. In addition, tensing your face and jaw muscles can cause pain that feels like a headache.
While headaches can have many different causes, it is worth mentioning this symptom to your dentist. For example, morning headaches could be a sign of nocturnal teeth grinding.
2. Jaw Pain
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a common condition that manifests as pain in the jaw. Teeth grinding can be a root cause of this disorder.
If you are experiencing pain from one or both of your jaw joints, you might have TMJ. Other closely related symptoms include popping or cracking sounds and sensations when you open your mouth wide.
3. Toothaches
Persistent tooth pain is a sign that you need to pay an emergency visit to the dentist. While decay often causes toothaches, it is not the only reason for tooth pain.
Tooth pain occurs when your jaw tenses and you involuntarily apply too much pressure to your teeth.
4. Damaged Teeth
Nighttime teeth clenching and grinding can cause considerable wear to a sufferer’s teeth.
Severe bruxism can crack and wear down your teeth. If you have noticed any tooth damage, you should see your dentist immediately to prevent further wear.
Fortunately, you can alleviate this problem with a properly fitted night guard.
5. Stress
If stressed, you may involuntarily clench your jaw or grind your teeth. Mental tension often leads to physical tension and can cause nighttime bruxism.
If you are experiencing any of the above signs and are stressed, you should visit a dentist immediately.
How A Night Guard Helps Your Oral Health
Night guards, transparent trays resembling retainers, effectively relax your jaw and protect your teeth. Custom-fit night guards are your best solution, as generic, ill-fitting night guards could cause further discomfort. A qualified dentist can help you find the best night guard and address the cause of your teeth grinding problem.
Contact Us Today!
Do you need a dentist knowledgeable about night guards and nocturnal bruxism? Contact us at Brend Dental to set up an appointment now.
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