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Living in a highly developed society comes with its own set of challenges. The constant pressure to perform, combined with everyday stressors like work deadlines and personal responsibilities can take a toll on our mental and physical well-being. Add to that the ongoing global pandemic and economic uncertainty and it's no wonder many people are experiencing heightened levels of stress and anxiety!
One common physical manifestation of stress is teeth grinding. This involuntary clenching and grinding of the teeth can occur during the day or at night, often without the person being aware of it. Over time, teeth grinding can lead to a range of dental issues including worn-out tooth surface, cracked teeth, jaw pain and headaches. A mouth guard can be a simple yet effective solution to protect your dental health and ultimately improve your overall well-being.
What is teeth grinding and why does it occur?
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition characterised by the clenching or grinding of upper teeth against the lower. It often occurs during sleep (nocturnal bruxism) but can also happen subconsciously during waking hours (diurnal bruxism), especially in response to stress or anxiety. Grinding and clenching not only affect the teeth but also strain the jaw muscles, leading to significant discomfort.
The causes of bruxism are multifactorial and can be influenced by various factors. Stress and anxiety are common triggers1. Bruxism can also be related to teeth misalignment or sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. Interestingly, our daytime habits can influence our nighttime behavior. For instance, if you tend to experience muscle tension and clenched jaw during the day, this pattern will likely persist during sleep.
While occasional teeth grinding may not cause harm, chronic bruxism can lead to significant dental problems, including:
- Worn enamel
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Jaw joint pain or tightness in jaw muscles
- Headaches
- Tooth sensitivity
- Disrupted sleep
Understanding the causes and symptoms of teeth grinding is crucial for seeking appropriate treatment and preventing further dental damage.
Why is using a mouth Guard for teeth grinding important?
A mouth guard for teeth grinding is a dental appliance that is worn over the teeth during sleep. These guards help reduce the wear and tear on teeth and alleviate symptoms associated with TMJ disorders. It acts as a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, reducing the effects of teeth grinding.
Using a properly fitting mouth guard, can protect your teeth from damage and provide long-term relief from these issues.While it won't stop you from grinding altogether, it offers several benefits:
1) Protection from Damage
Without this physical barrier, the intense pressure and friction can wear down the chewing surfaces of teeth, leading to tooth sensitivity, cracks or chips. In effect, the grinding force is three to ten times more powerful than regular chewing force, enough to crack a walnut2!
2) Alleviation of Symptoms
Bruxism often leads to symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches and facial muscle tension. This excessive pressure can strain the jaw joints or temporomandibular joint (TMJ), potentially causing TMJ disorders. A mouth guard helps distribute pressure evenly, reducing strain on the jaw muscles and joints and providing relief from these symptoms.
3) Improvement in Sleep Quality
For individuals who grind their teeth at night or suffer from sleep apnea, a specific type of mouth guard can be beneficial. These guards can help manage both conditions by keeping the airway open and reducing the stress on teeth and jaw muscles. It can help relax your muscles and reduce the frequency and intensity of teeth grinding episodes, leading to a more restful night's sleep. Investing in the right mouth guard, whether for sports or sleep, is crucial for maintaining oral health and preventing further dental problems.
In addition to night guards, those involved in contact sports should consider using sports mouth guards.
Related Articles
- What is the purpose of a mouth guard: Why It Matters
- Cleaning Your Mouth Guard For Optimal Protection: Do's and Dont's
A mouth guard for teeth grinding not only protects your oral health by preventing dental damage but also enhances your overall well-being. At Dental Designs Clinic, we offer four different types of mouth guards: DuraMax, Dura 3D, DuraAir and soft mouth guards. Each type is designed to address specific types of teeth grinding, ensuring that you find the right fit for your needs.
Read below to find out which one suits you best, or reach out to us to book an appointment.
How do I choose the right mouth guard for teeth grinding?
Choosing the right mouth guard for teeth grinding can be a bit overwhelming with so many options out there. But fret not, we are here to help! Here are a few important things to consider:
Degrees of Grinding
Select a mouth guard based on the severity of your tooth grinding. Some guards offer protection only, while others provide therapeutic benefits as well. For example, our soft and DuraAir mouth guards offer protection against mild to moderate teeth grinding, while Dura3D and DuraMax provide both protection and therapy for heavy grinding. Read more
Customisation, Comfort and Fit
Stock mouth guards are available over the counter but they do not provide the same level of comfort, fit and protection as custom ones. At Dental Designs Clinic, we only provide custom fitted mouth guards tailored to fit your mouth perfectly, ensuring optimal function.
Price
Mouth guards come in a range of prices, so it's important to find one that fits your budget. Custom mouth guards tend to be more expensive than stock mouth guards but they often offer better fit and protection. Consider your budget and how much you're willing to spend on a mouth guard that meets your needs. Read more
Conclusion
While there is no definitive cure for teeth grinding and clenching, the use of a well-fitted custom mouth guard can be highly effective in managing the condition. It is important to consult with a dentist if you grind or clench teeth, as they can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate dental mouth guard.
References
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Wieckiewicz M, Paradowska-Stolarz A, Wieckiewicz W. Psychosocial aspects of bruxism: the most paramount factor influencing teeth grinding. Biomed Res Int. 2014;2014:469187. doi: 10.1155/2014/469187. Epub 2014 Jul 13. PMID: 25101282; PMCID: PMC4119714.
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Bashir A, Jawa D, Somani R, Jaidka S, Magray I, Ahmad L, VG Hridya, Madhu A. All aboutbruxism-The teeth grinding. J Adv Med Dent Scie Res 2021;9(5):9-23.