Night Guard
Excessive grinding and clenching of teeth is known as bruxism. It can occur when awake or during sleep, hence some patients may be unaware of the condition. Up to 30% of the population may have bruxism.
Bruxism is a destructive abnormal activity that can cause:
- Headaches
- Jaw Aches
- Excessive “wear and tear” of the teeth, making them “shorter”
- Chipped or cracked teeth and dental fillings
- Difficulty or pain during chewing
- Teeth sensitivity
Causes of bruxism may include psycho-emotional factors (e.g. anxiety and stress), diet, medications and genetic reasons.
A common preventive treatment for bruxism is the use of a night guard.
The night guard is worn during sleep at night. It helps to control excessive wear and damage to the teeth, and may encourage the relaxation of the jaw.
When used consistently, the night guard is a simple and effective appliance to reduce the negative effects of bruxism.
Please consult with your dentist for more information.