Stop bruxism with night guards from your Columbia, MO Dentist
Tooth grinding, or bruxism, is a habit among many individuals. While some are aware of doing this consciously during the day, many more are unaware that it also occurs while sleeping. Nighttime bruxism can cause many oral health problems including damaged enamel, worn down teeth, and jaw pain. In some cases, the noise from teeth grinding may even impact your partner’s sleep. At the office of Chase Patton D.D.S., we can provide patients with night guards to cut down on the impact of bruxism.
About night guards
Like an athletic mouth guard, night guards are custom fitted to go over both arches of teeth, providing a barrier between them while you sleep. The night guards are designed from impressions of your teeth, so they have a perfect fit and allow you to breathe properly.
Our custom-made night guards are made from high quality materials that allow them to be comfortable while still preventing damage from teeth grinding and jaw clenching. In addition to a better night’s sleep, night guards can stop troublesome problems such as chronic headaches and craniofacial pain.
How do I know if I need a night guard?
There are certain tell-tale signs that you are grinding your teeth at night. If you suffer from morning headaches along with stiffness, pain or swelling in the jaw, this can be a sign of jaw tension overnight. Other signs include worn down tooth enamel, cracked teeth, loose fillings, or tooth sensitivity. While nighttime teeth grinding is often a result of stress, I can also be due to TMJ disorder, misaligned teeth, a sleep disorder, or even allergies.
What you can expect
To determine if you are afflicted by nighttime bruxism, Dr. Patton will perform a thorough dental examination along with asking you a series of questions about your symptoms. If we determine that you would benefit from a nightguard, we will take impressions and x-rays of the mouth, which will then be sent to a dental laboratory for fabrication of your night guard. Once the night guard is ready you will return to the office for a fitting. Small adjustments can be made in the office to ensure the fit is just right.
Frequently ask questions about night guards
Can bruxism be a problem during the day/while awake?
Yes. While it often occurs at night while people are sleeping, some people may also experience “awake bruxism.” Those who grind their teeth during the day may do so without thinking, as they are deeply focused on work or stressed about a family or professional crisis. Stress has also been implicated in night or “nocturnal bruxism.” Other potential causes of habitual teeth grinding range from oral and maxillofacial imbalances to medical conditions (such as sleep-disordered breathing or apnea) and medications or substances like caffeinated drinks and products.
Can bruxism go away on its own?
It’s not unusual for children to grind their teeth as their jaws grow. In these cases, bruxism can resolve on its own without causing lasting damage. However, bruxism that affects adult patients often requires treatment due to its links to chronic conditions such as poorly managed stress. Until those underlying problems are treated, the destructive behaviors persist. Nightguards can help. While the grinding may still occur, there is now a physical barrier between the upper and lower teeth. The teeth and surrounding tissues no longer bear the full pressure from teeth grinding activity.
What are the benefits of custom nightguards?
The word “custom” makes a world of difference. You can purchase nightguards at the store or online. These nightguards may be a universal fit, or they may support an imprecise “boil and bite” fit. Such nightguards do not conform precisely to your teeth and the contours of your mouth. They may not provide the protection that you need, and may be uncomfortable due to an awkward or loose fit. The materials used to make custom-fit mouthguards are generally superior to those used for OTC appliances. So, while they may cost more upfront, the quality, durability, and comfort of custom-fit guards make them a smart investment in the health and appearance of your smile.
Can nightguards help with TMJ symptoms?
There are many different types of oral appliances available at our office. Depending on your needs, Dr. Patton may recommend occlusal splints. These splints can provide optimal jaw stability while also protecting your teeth and tissues from damage caused by bruxism. This can be an appropriate dual treatment for the many individuals who have both TMJD and bruxism.
Are nightguards used in conjunction with other therapies?
Yes. Since so many factors can contribute to bruxism, there are steps you can take that may resolve the underlying cause of your persistent teeth grinding. For instance, oral appliance therapy may be complemented by mindfulness practices, relaxation exercises, and lifestyle changes. Even seemingly simple changes can make a big, positive difference. For example, you may find that avoiding coffee or alcohol too close to bedtime promotes better sleep cycles and helps with muscle tension. For individuals who also have symptoms of TMJ disorder (like chronic migraines, facial pain, and jaw locking), Dr. Patton may even suggest Botox®. This injectable treatment isn’t just for wrinkles. It may be precisely applied to overly engaged muscles to ease their activity and reduce the frequency and severity of TMJD symptoms.
Protect your teeth with night guards
Nighttime bruxism can cause uncomfortable symptoms that impact your quality of life. Enjoy a good night’s rest and protect your smile with night guards from the office of Chase Patton D.D.S. in Columbia, MO. To book a consultation, call (573) 875-7040.
Dr. Chase Patton is a highly skilled dentist passionate about improving patients' physical and mental health through comprehensive dental care. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, graduating Cum Laude from the University of Missouri–Kansas City, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Missouri–Columbia. Dr. Patton has advanced training in oral surgery and cosmetic dentistry, receiving accolades such as the American Academy of Orofacial Pain Award. His commitment to continued education at the prestigious Pankey Institute reflects his dedication to providing exceptional care with skill, expertise, and trustworthiness.
