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Mouth Guards & Bruxism

If you suffer from bruxism, you involuntarily grind or clench your teeth. This most often happens while you're sleeping, and you may not realize you're grinding your teeth until your sleeping companion tells you. Using a custom-fitted mouthguard can help eliminate the noise your teeth grinding makes while protecting your teeth.

  1. Identification

    • A mouthguard is designed for people with bruxism, and it covers the biting and chewing surfaces of your teeth in one jaw, which is usually the upper jaw. "This keeps your upper and lower teeth from grinding against each other," according to SimplyTeeth.com. Although mouthguards are not a cure for bruxism, further damage to your teeth can be prevented.

    Types

    • Stock mouthguards can be purchased inexpensively at sporting goods or department stores, and come ready to use. However, these mouthguards may not fit correctly, so your teeth are not protected. "You may achieve a better fit with a boil and bite mouthguard, which you can purchase from a sporting goods store," according to Malmin Dental. This mouthguard is placed in hot water to soften, then it is shaped around your teeth with finger and tongue pressure. A custom fitted mouthguard that is specifically designed for you by your dentist or a dental laboratory will be more comfortable, fit better and provide better protection than the inexpensive mouthguards.

    Considerations

    • If you're under a lot of stress or trying to resolve mental problems, you may grind your teeth while you're sleeping. "Your body needs a way to release stress, and because you're sleeping, your body resolves stress in its own way by causing you to involuntarily grind your teeth," according to AmericanChronicle.com.

    Effects

    • Bruxism can cause a headache, earache or toothache, and it may cause sore facial muscles and jaw joints. "Clenching or grinding your teeth may cause loose teeth, cracks or fractures, which can result in tooth enamel wearing away," according to the American Dental Association. Without the protection of tooth enamel, your teeth will be sensitive to pressure and changes in temperature.

    Maintenance

    • Taking proper care of your mouthguard will help prevent infection and keep your teeth and gums healthy. Before inserting your mouthguard, brush and floss your teeth, and clean the guard after each use with cool water and soap. "Chewing on your mouthguard can distort the shape," according to YourDentistryGuide.com. If you think you need a mouthguard adjustment, don't try to do it yourself, call your dentist. Don't leave your mouthguard in your car or in direct sunlight, as heat can damage the mouthguard.

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