Many are familiar with nighttime teeth grinding. But did you know that teeth grinding can happen during the day as well? It is known as daytime teeth grinding and if you have such a habit, you’re not alone. Many people do it, often without even realising it, especially when they're stressed or focused.
Teeth grinding and clenching, often occurring during sleep, can lead to significant damage to both the upper and lower teeth. This habit is commonly associated with TMJ disorders and may contribute to further oral health issues, including sleep apnea.
Daytime teeth grinding poses unique challenges that can disrupt daily life and overall well-being. Fortunately, daytime mouth guards have emerged as an effective solution to provide optimal protection against teeth grinding. These oral devices not only help in preventing damage to teeth but can also alleviate the discomfort associated with tension and stress. Let’s dive into what they are, why they’re useful and how to choose the right one for your oral health.
Daytime teeth grinding, or daytime bruxism, is a condition characterised by involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth while awake. Unlike nighttime bruxism (sleep bruxism or nocturnal bruxism), daytime bruxism is often linked to stress, concentration or certain specific activities. It can lead to a host of dental issues, including jaw pain, facial pain, headaches and tooth wear.
Teeth grinding during the day can happen for several reasons—
A daytime mouth guard is a special type of dental appliance that you wear over your teeth to protect them from the effects of grinding. They are typically worn on the upper teeth. Unlike night guards, which are made to be worn while you sleep, daytime guards for teeth grinding are designed to be comfortable enough for daytime use.
A bite guard, designed to fit snugly based on a dental impression, is an effective solution to prevent teeth from wearing down. Using a daytime mouth guard has several benefits.
It helps shield your teeth from the damage caused by grinding and clenching, preventing wear and tear.
By preventing grinding, these types of mouth guards can help ease discomfort and pain in your jaw muscles.
Alleviates associated headaches and facial pain.
A well-fitted mouth guard can make it more comfortable to go about your day without worrying about damaging your teeth.
|
|
Daytime Bruxism (Awake Bruxism) | Nighttime Bruxism (Sleep Bruxism or Nocturnal Bruxism) |
|---|---|---|
|
When |
Occurs during waking hours |
Happens during sleep |
|
Awareness |
Individuals are often aware of the grinding |
Individuals may not be conscious of grinding |
|
Triggers |
Typically triggered by stress and concentration |
May be related to sleep patterns and physiological factors |
|
Management |
Daytime mouth guards and stress management techniques |
Night guards and resolution of sleep issues. |
When picking a daytime mouth guard, there are a few things to consider.
Since you’ll be wearing it during the day, make sure it fits comfortably and doesn’t feel too bulky. Some types of mouth guards are thinner and designed specifically for daytime clenching and teeth grinding.
A good mouth guard should fit snugly over your upper teeth without being too tight. Properly fitted bite guards help alleviate pressure on the jaw and protect against further damage caused by grinding. This ensures that it stays in place and doesn’t interfere with your speaking or daily activities.
Day guards are often made from softer but durable materials compared to night guards. To maintain its shape, avoid soaking the bite guard in hot water, as it may warp.
You can get a custom mouth guard made by a dentist, which will be tailored to fit your mouth perfectly. There are also over-the-counter mouth guards that are pre-formed and adjustable. Custom guards offer the best fit and maximum protection but they come at a higher cost. Over-the-counter guards are more affordable but might not fit as well. Find out more about the differences between custom vs over-the-counter mouth guards here.
Here are some tips to make sure you get the best results from your mouth guard.
Click here to find out what is the best way to take proper care of your mouth guard!
Daytime bruxism, the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth during the day, can lead to various dental health issues if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several methods to address this concern, besides the use of a mouth guard. One of the ways is to effectively manage stress since stress is often a key contributor to teeth grinding. Here are a few techniques:
Day guards are a helpful tool for anyone who grinds their teeth during the day. They protect your teeth from damage, reduce jaw pain and help you stay comfortable. Whether you choose a custom mouth guard or an over-the-counter option, the key is to find one that fits well and suits your needs.
If you’re unsure which type is best for you, talking to your healthcare provider or dentist can help you make the right choice. Protecting your smile is important, so consider giving a day guard a try—it might be just what you need for a healthier, more comfortable day!
Ready to book an dental appointment with us for your mouth guard? Simply drop us a message here and we will be right with you!