If you grind your teeth while you sleep, you should be concerned about dental damage, and the effect it might have on your smile and oral health. Nightly teeth grinding is a consequence of bruxism, an issue where a person habitually clenches their jaw. Your jaw can close with significant force, and the regular grinding of your teeth can lead to significant chips and cracks. At our Seattle, WA dental practice, we can give you important protection against bruxism’s impact on your teeth by providing a custom mouth guard. When worn at night, you can keep your teeth apart, and avoid harm. This can also reduce stress on your jaw joints, which can prevent chronic pain from becoming an issue.
Pay Attention To The Signs Of Bruxism
People who experience problems with bruxism can feel its effects during their typical mornings. How often do you wake up feeling discomfort in your teeth, or your jaw joints? That pain can be the lingering effect of a night spent clenching your teeth. You may also notice wear and tear starting to affect the shape of your teeth. While your dentist can also identify wear and tear during a routine dental appointment, you should not wait for a routine visit if you suspect you are suffering the effects of bruxism.
Wearing A Guard To Keep Your Teeth Safe At Night
The right oral appliance is one that fits comfortably, and keeps your smile safe against the effects of teeth grinding. We will take care to create a custom guard, one that you can wear without feeling awkward. A better fit can make it easier for you to fall asleep, and it can ensure your guard is not likely to shift out of place.
Has Damage Already Become An Issue? Talk To Us About Cosmetic Dental Work!
Unfortunately, some patients are not aware that bruxism is an issue for their dentist until they see visible damages. If you have reached this stage already, know that our practice can help by providing cosmetic dental work. For wear and tear, or flaws like chipping and cracking, we can recommend porcelain veneers to improve your appearance. You can also meet with us to talk about placing dental crowns on teeth that have experienced more significant harm. A crown is strong enough to protect a tooth that is weakened by damage, so you can continue to bite and chew without problems.
Talk To Ballard Neighborhood Dentist About Receiving A Custom Guard
At Ballard Neighborhood Dentist, patients who want relief from bruxism can talk to us about receiving a custom guard! Our goal is to help Seattle area residents maintain healthy, happy smiles, and we are prepared to work with you on problems that threaten your oral health and appearance! For more information, please call Ballard Neighborhood Dentist in Seattle, WA today at 206-789-2555.
