Teeth grinding is common, especially among young children who usually outgrow the nighttime habit. Once adult teeth set in, bruxism can result in irreversible damage to the enamel. If adults grind their teeth regularly, the habit can result in chipped or cracked teeth. Bruxism is even a risk factor for TMJ disorder, a condition that results in recurrent jaw pain.
If you are looking for a McAllen, TX dentist who can treat teeth grinding, Dr. Joon Baek can measure and make the custom guards. Night guards are oral appliances that are worn at night. The custom-molded guards prevent teeth grinding, and they can relieve jaw pain associated with bruxism.
Symptoms and Causes of Bruxism
Bruxism is common among adults, but it does decline with age. A survey from the National Sleep Foundation found that Sleep-Related Bruxism (SB) is common among children with 14 to 20 percent of kids under the age of 11 exhibiting the condition. Among adults ages 18 to 29, it was found in 13 percent of survey respondents. Only three percent of adults over the age of 60 reported symptoms of SB.
Often, the adults who visit our McAllen dental practice are unaware that they grind their teeth at night. This is one reason why Dr. Baek recommends that all of his patients visit Top Dental twice a year for exams and dental cleanings. Bruxism is one of the conditions Dr. Baek looks for during exams. Common symptoms of teeth grinding include:
- Worn teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Pronounced temperature sensitivity
- Jaw pain
- Aching jaw muscles
- Headaches
If you have sustained damage to your teeth, Dr. Baek offers multiple restorative treatments that can protect your remaining tooth structure.
Common Causes of Teeth Grinding
Bruxism can result from a wide range of causes. During your consultation with your McAllen dentist, Dr. Baek, the underlying cause of your bruxism will be diagnosed and treated. Temporary life situations like anxiety and stress are common causes of teeth grinding. Other common causes of the condition include:
- Alcohol consumption
- Certain medications
- Misaligned teeth
- Missing teeth
- Sleep apnea
How Are Night Guards Made?
Dr. Baek offers nightguards because the oral appliances are safe, effective, and non-invasive. The guards are placed over both arches of teeth at night and prevent the teeth from coming into contact with each other. By preventing teeth grinding, the night guards also allow jaw muscles to relax at night.
During your visit to our McAllen dental practice, Dr. Baek will make a mold of your mouth that will be used to manufacture your custom night guard. Once the device is fabricated, Dr. Baek will ensure that it is a perfect fit. There are over-the-counter mouth guards sold at convenience stores, but only prescription night guards can deliver predictable results. Each night guard is custom-fitted to your exact bite characteristics.
Prevent Irreversible Tooth Damage Using a Custom Night Guard
A protective night guard absorbs pressure from nocturnal teeth grinding, which protects both your teeth and your jaw. A night guard needs to be made by a qualified dentist who understands the unique features of your mouth. To schedule your night guard consultation, please contact our McAllen office online or call us now at (956) 618-5811.