Do you wake up with morning headaches? You may clench and grind your teeth at night. We can create a custom mouthguard for you in our Truckee, CA, dental office to protect your teeth. Wearing a nightguard during sleep prevents your teeth from grinding together. It also prevents jaw pain, headaches, and other problems.
Prevention and Protection
The two “p’s”
An ounce of protection is worth a pound of cure
~Ben Franklin
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is very common. Many people gnash, grind, or clench at night, while some people suffer from “awake bruxism” or grinding their teeth during the day. Grinding can be caused by stress and anxiety, but it can also be the result of a sleep disorder, such as Sleep Apnea, a misaligned bite, or missing or crooked teeth.
Why is it so bad?
Teeth aren’t built to withstand constant force, grinding, or abrasion. Chewing typically exerts 20 to 40 pounds on the teeth. However, the pressure from clenching or grinding can put 400-600 pounds per square inch of pressure on the teeth.
Results of Untreated Teeth Grinding
When you ignore the symptoms of teeth grinding, you can experience even more problems, which can include:
Jaw Soreness or Headaches
When you grind or clench your teeth, the muscles in your jaw tighten. This strain doesn’t just stay in the jaw—it can spread to other areas of your head, leading to frequent headaches. Over time, this tension can cause ongoing pain and discomfort in your jaw and temples.
Premature Loss of Enamel
Grinding puts constant pressure on your teeth, wearing down the outer layer of enamel over time. As your enamel wears away, your teeth may become shorter, more sensitive, and prone to cavities or decay. Without enamel to protect the inner layers of your teeth, simple activities like eating or drinking hot, cold, or sugary foods can cause discomfort.
Cracked or Fractured Teeth
The force exerted during teeth grinding is often much more than your teeth are built to handle. Over time, this excessive pressure can weaken teeth, causing cracks, chips, or even fractures. A fractured tooth can be painful and might require costly repairs, like crowns or even tooth replacement.
Gum Recession
The immense force of grinding—often as much as 400-600 pounds per square inch—can push your gums away from your teeth, leading to gum recession. Once gums pull back, they often don’t grow back on their own. The recessed areas become a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause tooth decay, bone loss, and, eventually, tooth loss. Gum recession also exposes the sensitive roots of your teeth, making them vulnerable to pain from hot or cold temperatures.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your lower jaw to your skull and help you chew and speak. Teeth grinding places constant stress on these joints, leading to a condition called temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ. Symptoms of TMJ include jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing. Sometimes you can experience a clicking or popping noise when you open your mouth.
Getting a Custom Mouthguard in Truckee, CA
The process to have your mouthguard made is fairly simple. At your first appointment, we’ll take detailed impressions of your teeth using a mold or digital scanner. These impressions capture the unique shape and alignment of your teeth. The information we gather is sent to a trusted dental laboratory, where skilled technicians will create your personalized mouthguard.
At your follow-up visit, your custom mouthguard will be ready for fitting. We’ll have you try it on to ensure it fits snugly and comfortably. If necessary, we’ll make adjustments to ensure the mouthguard feels secure and provides optimal protection for your teeth. Once the fit is perfect, you’re ready to wear it during sports or to protect against teeth grinding.
Custom Mouthguard FAQs
Read answers to common questions about custom mouthguard treatment in Truckee, CA:
What are the benefits of choosing a custom mouthguard?
A night guard is custom-made to fit perfectly in your mouth. This custom fit will protect your teeth better from nighttime grinding. Properly protecting your teeth from grinding will save you the time and expense from the damage it can lead to.
Will a mouthguard cure my bruxism?
No, wearing a mouthguard at night will not cure your teeth grinding. It will simply protect your teeth. A mouthguard acts as a barrier between your teeth to prevent damage. While a mouthguard can’t stop you from grinding your teeth, it can reduce the harmful effects of the habit.
How do I care for my custom TMJ mouthguard?
Caring for your custom TMJ mouthguard will keep it clean, fresh, and in good condition. After wearing your mouthguard, rinse it thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water to remove saliva and any debris. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the material.
Clean your mouthguard daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or mild soap. This helps remove bacteria and plaque buildup. At least once a week, soak your mouthguard in a specialized cleaner, like a denture cleaning solution. When you’re not wearing your mouthguard, keep it in a ventilated storage case to protect it from dirt and bacteria. Make sure the case allows for airflow to prevent odors or mold growth.
Also, keep your mouthguard away from hot water, direct sunlight, or other heat sources. High temperatures can cause the material to lose its shape.
How long will my mouthguard last?
This depends on how well you care for it. They last, on average, about two to five years. We recommend replacing it every few years or when it becomes noticeably worn. Also, if you have any major dental work completed that affects your bite, you will need to have a new one made. This ensures a proper fit to protect your teeth.
Treatment For Teeth Grinding in Truckee, CA
To explore your treatment options for bruxism in Truckee, CA, visit the dental practice of Dr. Baldwin. To schedule your appointment, call (530) 206-0392 or request an appointment online.