Chronic teeth grinding, technically called bruxism, is a condition that affects patients of all ages. Unfortunately, many people don’t know they have the condition because it often happens subconsciously at night when sleeping. While bruxism sufferers may not be aware of their condition, the symptoms are a constant reminder of the dangers of bruxism. Chronic tooth grinders wake up to morning headaches and jaw soreness; long-term effects include cracked or loose teeth.

Gentle Dentistry of Newnan PC understands the destructive effects of bruxism on your oral health and overall well-being. Dr. Ria Sahara and the team in Newnan, Georgia, offer a customized nightguard to overcome teeth grinding for a pain-free lifestyle. Our bespoke mouthguards are custom-fitted using the imprints of your teeth to provide a comfortable and superior fit. 

What you need to know about bruxism

Teeth grinding is a common condition that affects millions of people, from children to adults and anyone in between. Although the exact cause of teeth grinding isn’t known, stress, sleep apnea, poor teeth alignment, and certain medications have been linked to this condition. Whatever the cause, bruxism exerts pressure on your jaw muscles and joints, causing soreness and gradual wear and tear. 

The common symptoms of teeth grinding include:

• Jaw pain
• Chronic headaches and migraines
• Facial pain
• TMJ-related disorder
• Tooth Sensitivity
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Flattened, cracked, or fractured teeth
• Gum recession

Furthermore, teeth grinding causes gradual wear of the enamel, which increases the chances of cavities and decay. Also, bruxism exerts excessive force on teeth, far more than what they’re designed to withstand. Over time, this repeated and intense pressure can weaken the ligaments that hold your teeth in place and damage the surrounding bone structure, resulting in loose or misaligned teeth.

Treating teeth grinding with oral appliance therapy

Dr. Sahara treats teeth grinding with a customized oral appliance. This mouthguard, similar to a retainer, is worn at night over the upper or lower teeth, acting as a barrier between your teeth. A nightguard absorbs the bruxism-induced pressure, protecting your teeth from damage. This nightguard also shields the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), reducing tension on this joint and the muscles attached to it. 

While you can opt for generic oral appliances, our bespoke mouthguards provide a superior fit because they are made to the specifications of your teeth and other oral structures. Once you slip them in your mouth, they fit snugly, allowing you to breathe normally and even drink water. 

Besides comfort, our mouthguards are made from strong and durable materials to withstand the pressure transferred to them. This way, our mouthguards offer optimal protection and last years, making them an incredible investment.  

How to maintain a nightguard

Caring for your dental appliance is inexpensive and straightforward. After use, rinse your appliance in warm water to wash away saliva and food debris — avoid using hot water as it can deform your device. When not in use, store it in a dry, well-ventilated container.

• Brush and floss your teeth before placing the Comfort H/S Hard Soft Bite Splint in your mouth. 
• After use, rinse the bite splint with water and store dry. 
• Clean the bite splint with clear/white antibacterial soap (Dial) and warm water only.  You may use a Q-tip on the inside grooves.  (Do Not use a toothbrush) 

Wake up to the protective powers of a custom-fitted nightguard

Don’t let bruxism take control of your health, while treatment involves a simple nightguard. To overcome teeth grinding in Newman, Georgia, please call or text (470) 686-6667 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ria Sahara.

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