Five reasons to consider a night guard for teeth grinding and clenching due to bruxism

About 10% of adults are believed to clench and grind their teeth (called bruxism), and while most are unaware of their condition, it can cause a lot of damage and jaw pain over time. Stress and anxiety are commonly associated with this, and there may be additional underlying causes, such as poor sleep, misaligned teeth, or negative drug reactions. At Kennebec Dental Excellence of Winslow, Maine, Drs. Jeff Bue can educate and assist patients with this condition and offer quality night guards for teeth grinding and clenching. Let’s look at a few reasons to move forward with a mouth guard to address bruxism symptoms:

• Protects your teeth. Cracks, chips, fractures, and even enamel degradation can result from the continuous pressure and force applied to your teeth. A night guard acts as a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from being in direct contact with each other, minimizing the impact of grinding, and preserving their health and appearance.
• Reduces headaches and jaw pain. One of the most reported symptoms of bruxism is waking up each day with a headache or experiencing jaw pain throughout the day. Excessive pressure and strain on your jaw muscles can cause tension headaches and soreness in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Wearing a night guard helps to alleviate this tension by providing a cushion between your teeth, allowing your jaw to relax. 
• Improves sleep quality. Many patients who suffer from bruxism also experience disrupted sleep patterns. The clenching and grinding can be loud enough to wake you up throughout the night. This constant disturbance can lead to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating during the day. 
• Cost-effective solution. A night guard is an affordable and cost-effective option as it can help prevent the need for costly restorative procedures due to tooth damage caused by grinding and protect any work you have already had done.  
• Customizable and comfortable. A dentist typically custom-made night guards to fit your specific mouth’s shape and size, allowing for a snug but comfortable fit and minimizing discomfort or irritation. The material used for night guards is a durable and long-lasting solution, ensuring you can continue using it for an extended period without frequent replacements.

Who can I call to learn more about a bruxism night guard for my needs?

If you want to protect your smile from damage, we invite you to book a visit with Drs. Jeff Bue, to learn more about this condition and how it can be alleviated. The office is located in Winslow, Maine, at 464 Benton Avenue, and can be reached by calling (207) 810-5088. Don’t let bruxism damage your smile. Take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free life by scheduling a consultation today.

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