TEETH GRINDING AND MOUTHGUARDS

​What is Bruxism?
Bruxism or Teeth Grinding is a parafunctional phthologic activity that occurs in most people.  This pathological habit has two components: Clenching and Grinding.  These two actions usually occur during a person’s sleeping hours, but can fequently occur during the day. Bruxism is one of the most common known sleep disorders. Chewing is a neuromuscular activity controlled by a subconscious process, but more highly controlled by the brain. During sleep, the subconscious process may become active, while the higher control is inactive (asleep), resulting in bruxism. The most common symptoms are earaches, headaches, depression, eating disorders, anxiety, and chronic stress.

Why should I seek treatment? 
Bruxism is a leading cause of gum and bone recession and tooth loss. Grinding can damage the bone and gum tissue directly and lead to loose teeth and deep pockets where bacteria are able to colonize and decay the supporting bone.
Facial pain. Grinding can eventually shorten and blunt the teeth.  This can lead to muscle pain in the myofascial region and in severe cases, incapacitating headaches.
Occlusal trauma. The abnormal wear patterns on the occlusal (chewing) surfaces of the teeth can lead to fractures, which, if left untreated, may require root canals and crowns. 
In the most severe cases, bruxism can eventually lead to painful arthritis in the temporomandibular (TMJ) joints that allow the jaw to open and close smoothly.

How is Bruxism treated?
Though there is no known cure for bruxism. A custom fit mouthgard can PREVENT & PROTECT you teeth from excessive forces that cause the wear, chipping and cracking of teeth. 

A mouthguard is an acrylic custom made appliance designed from teeth impressions to help minimize the abrasive grinding action during grinding. Mouthguards must be worn to help prevent tooth damage.
Once bruxing is control through the use of the mauthguard, we can perform a variety of dental procedures to help you restore the damage.