Grinding, Snoring, and Jaw Pain: Is a Night Guard the Answer?

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Your dentist in Alabaster, AL is all about oral health, including problems with teeth grinding, snoring and jaw pain. If you find yourself waking up frequently with a sore jaw, headaches or your partner complains about your nighttime noises, talk to your dentist at Alabama Dental Sleep and Wellness, because a night guard might be the answer. It just might be a simple solution that also addresses bigger issues.

What is a Night Guard?

A night guard is so named because it’s designed to protect—or guard—your teeth while you sleep. When you get a night guard at your dentist’s office, it’ll be custom-made so it fits very comfortably. Yes, it takes some getting used to, but before you know it you’ll be able to wear it without a second’s thought.

The Hidden Effects of Grinding

Teeth grinding often goes unnoticed until damage begins. Over time, it can wear down enamel, cause tooth sensitivity, or even lead to cracked or chipped teeth. It also puts excess strain on the jaw, contributing to tension headaches and TMJ issues.

Snoring and Airway Support

Certain night guards, particularly mandibular advancement devices, are made to gently reposition the jaw to keep airways open during sleep. For mild snoring or sleep apnea, this can improve breathing and sleep quality, for both you and your sleep partner.

Jaw Pain and Alignment Relief

If you experience jaw pain, stiffness or a popping sensation, a night guard can help realign your bite slightly and reduce nighttime clenching. This helps your jaw muscles relax, lowering the risk of long-term joint problems.

A Simple, Custom Solution

Over-the-counter guards may offer temporary relief, but they often lack the proper fit. A custom night guard from your dentist is molded specifically to your teeth and bite, offering better comfort, effectiveness, and durability.

If you’re experiencing grinding, snoring or jaw discomfort, talk to a dentist who’s a specialist in these areas. A night guard in Alabaster, AL might be the small change that makes a big difference in your sleep, comfort and long-term oral health. It’s a simple solution, but one that is a very definitive and effective remedy for certain conditions.

 How Do I Know If I Grind My Teeth While Sleeping?

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Do you grind your teeth while sleeping? It’s an important question. Bruxism (teeth grinding) can cause significant damage to your oral health. If you want to know if you grind your teeth while you’re sleeping, you will need adentist in Alabaster, AL, to examine your mouth and make a diagnosis.

The Most Common Signs and Symptoms of Teeth Grinding

The best way to determine if you grind your teeth is to recognize their signs and symptoms.

For example:

  • Morning headaches
  • Jaw and or ear pain
  • Stiff jaws while chewing your morning meal
  • Chipped or cracked teeth
  • Loose teeth
  • Worn enamel
  • Hot and cold tooth sensitivity
  • Tooth indentations on your tongue
  • Bites on the insides of your cheeks

What Causes Teeth Grinding While Sleeping?

Any number of things could cause you to grind your teeth. It could be caused by too much caffeine, alcohol use, taking certain medications, family history, drug use (prescription and/or recreational), and some diseases such as dementia, acid reflux, Parkinson’s, epilepsy, sleep apnea, and more. Your dentist can diagnose and come up with abruxism treatment in Alabaster, AL.

How To Train Yourself Not to Clench Your Teeth

You can train yourself not to clench your teeth by putting the tip of your tongue between your teeth. Doing this will help train your jaw muscles to relax. You can also put a warm cloth on your cheek in front of your earlobe. Do these things repeatedly, and you might be able to break your teeth-clenching habit.

How To Fix Your Ground Down Teeth

You will need restorative dentistry to fix your ground teeth. The severity of the damage will determine what type of restorative dentistry you need.

Here are some restorative dentistry treatments commonly used to fix ground teeth.

  • Crowns
  • Veneers
  • Composite bonding
  • Dental night guards

Looking for an Exceptional Dentist in Alabaster, AL?

If you think you might be grinding your teeth while sleeping, pleaseContact Alabama Dental Sleep and Wellness to schedule an exam. The sooner you find out, the sooner you can be diagnosed and treated. Don’t delay! The longer you put off getting treated, the more expensive it will be to correct your growing dental issues.