Relieving Discomfort and Damage from Teeth Clenching and Grinding
At De-ientes Dental Care, we offer professional dental treatments for teeth clenching and grinding, known as bruxism. Our experienced dental team is dedicated to relieving discomfort, protecting your teeth, and preventing long-term oral health issues. Bruxism is a condition where patients unconsciously grind, clench, or gnash their teeth, often during sleep. It can cause significant dental damage and discomfort if left untreated. Common symptoms include jaw pain, headaches, tooth sensitivity, and worn-down teeth.
As clenching happens during sleep, it’s not an easy condition to treat. In most cases, it is caused by stress. Seeking out ways to reduce stress can make you less likely to clench or grind your teeth. If clenching is still impacting your dental health, you may want to look into treatments that can protect your teeth at night.
Book your FREE Cosmetic ConsultationWhat Causes Clenching and Grinding of Teeth?
Clenching and grinding of teeth, also known as bruxism, can occur for a variety of reasons. One of the most common causes is stress or anxiety, which may lead individuals to unconsciously grind their teeth, particularly during sleep. Other contributing factors include misaligned teeth or an abnormal bite, which can create discomfort and lead to grinding as the jaw tries to find a more natural position. Lifestyle habits such as excessive caffeine or alcohol intake, smoking, and recreational drug use can also increase the likelihood of bruxism. In some cases, medical conditions like sleep apnoea or certain medications, especially antidepressants, may trigger or worsen the condition. Identifying the underlying cause is key to managing and reducing the effects of teeth grinding.
What Treatments Help Prevent Clenching & Grinding?
If you are wearing down your teeth at night through grinding and clenching, a night guard can help reduce the impact on your teeth. While dentists can’t stop bruxism from happening at night, we can defend your smile from the effects. More often than not, grinding and clenching teeth comes from stress and anxiety. Treating the cause can help lessen the physical impact. Speaking to a profession about stress management can help ease the tension in your jaw and help with related headaches.
What’s Involved In Having A Custom Night Guard Made?
1. Initial Consultation
Your dentist will assess your needs, discuss any symptoms such as teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw pain, and determine whether a night guard is suitable for you.
2. Digital or Physical Impressions
A precise mould of your teeth is taken using either traditional dental putty or advanced digital scanning technology. This ensures the night guard fits perfectly to your bite.
3. Custom Fabrication
The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where your night guard is crafted from high-quality materials such as soft, hard, or dual-laminate plastics, depending on your needs.
4. Fitting Appointment
Once the night guard is ready, you will return to the dentist for a fitting. Adjustments may be made to ensure comfort and proper alignment.
5. Care Instructions
Your dentist will provide guidance on how to clean and maintain your night guard to extend its lifespan and keep it hygienic.
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FAQs & Common Questions
Below are some of the most common questions we receive from patients considering their dental treatment. If you require any further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Bruxism can be caused by stress, anxiety, misaligned teeth, or sleep disorders. It often occurs unconsciously during sleep or while concentrating.
Common signs include jaw pain, headaches, tooth sensitivity, and worn or fractured teeth. Your dentist can confirm the diagnosis during an examination.
A night guard is a custom-made dental appliance worn while sleeping. It creates a protective barrier between your teeth, reducing damage from grinding and alleviating jaw strain.
Yes, custom night guards are tailored to fit your teeth comfortably and effectively distribute pressure, providing better protection than over-the-counter versions.
With proper care, a custom night guard can last several years. However, regular check-ups are advised to monitor wear and ensure effectiveness.
Yes, night guards reduce pressure on the jaw muscles, which can significantly alleviate pain and tension headaches caused by bruxism.
Custom night guards are designed for comfort and should fit snugly. Most patients adjust to wearing them within a few nights.
Rinse it with cold water after use, clean it with a soft brush and mild soap, and store it in a ventilated case. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the material.
Coverage varies by provider. Our team can help you check your policy and submit claims where applicable.
Contact De-ientes Dental Care today to schedule a consultation. Our team will assess your symptoms and recommend the best treatment options for your needs.
Protect Your Smile While You Sleep
If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw at night, a custom-fit night guard can help prevent damage, reduce jaw pain, and improve your sleep quality. Don’t wait until tooth sensitivity, headaches, or worn-down enamel become a bigger problem. Schedule a consultation with your dentist to get a night guard that fits comfortably and keeps your teeth safe all night long.
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De-ientes Dental proudly serves patients across three welcoming locations: Golders Green, Bedford, and Clapham. Each practice offers a soothing, modern environment designed to help patients feel at ease, with minimalist interiors that reflect our commitment to compassionate service and advanced dental care. From the moment you arrive, our spaces embody our dedication to your comfort and well-being.
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