Everyone knows that your teeth can be damaged during the daytime—whether from chewing on ice, eating sugary and acidic foods, or as a result of an injury.
However, many people aren’t aware that their teeth and jaw joints can also be damaged while they sleep. If you suffer from a condition called sleep bruxism or have temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), you are likely suffering from some painful symptoms and possibly damaging your tooth enamel while you sleep. Our dentists at StoneRidge Dental Care can help you find relief and protect your teeth while you sleep with a custom-made dental nightguard in Gahanna, OH.
What Is A Dental Nightguard?
Also called an occlusal splint, a nightguard is a mouthguard intended to be worn while you sleep. Nightguard designs vary depending on whether you are suffering from sleep bruxism, TMD, or a combination of both.
Sometimes they are designed simply to protect your tooth enamel and chewing surfaces by providing a physical barrier. Other times, they feature a thicker, orthopedic design intended to reposition your jaw into a more comfortable arrangement. This repositioning helps prevent clenching, reduces muscle tension, and alleviates pressure on the sensitive jaw joints.
Why Wear A Mouthguard At Night?
The purpose of wearing a dental nightguard is to prevent painful symptoms and protect your teeth and gums from the wear and tear associated with the following issues:
Sleep Bruxism: The Habit Of Grinding
Sleep bruxism is characterized by the grinding of teeth and clenching of the jaw during sleep. There is no clear single cause, but it is often associated with stress and can be hereditary. Grinding puts excessive force on your teeth—often far more than normal chewing. This can lead to tooth decay, sensitivity, broken or chipped teeth, and even cause your gums to recede. Additionally, bruxism is a common trigger for frequent headaches and jaw, neck, face, and ear pain.
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD)
TMD is characterized by a misalignment of or strain and damage to the joints that connect the jawbone to the skull.
TMD and sleep bruxism are related disorders, as each can exacerbate the other. Symptoms of TMD include chronic jaw pain, lockjaw, and a distinct popping, clicking, or grinding sensation in the joints when opening or closing your mouth.
Signs You Might Need A Dental Nightguard
During your regular dental examination, our dentists can detect the telltale signs of wear and tear on your teeth that are associated with these conditions. You might also notice some of the following symptoms:
- Increased teeth sensitivity to hot or cold.
- Teeth or jaw pain, specifically in the morning.
- Frequent tension headaches and migraines.
- Clicking, popping, or grinding in your jaw joints.
- Physical muscle tension in the face and neck.
- Noticeable gum recession or flattened tooth surfaces.
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an appointment right away to prevent permanent dental damage.
Custom-Made Nightguards At StoneRidge Dental Care
If you think you might be grinding or clenching your teeth at night, we recommend scheduling an examination at StoneRidge Dental Care. We can evaluate your temporomandibular joints and examine your teeth for abnormal wear patterns to determine the best course of action. Unlike over-the-counter guards, our custom-made nightguards are designed to fit your unique bite precisely, providing superior comfort and long-lasting protection.
Find Relief In Gahanna, OH
To learn more or schedule an appointment, we welcome you to contact our dental clinic in Gahanna, OH, near Blacklick and New Albany. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve a pain-free, healthy smile that is protected around the clock.