Do you notice that you grind or clench your teeth? Are you having TMJ pain? There is an effective treatment to help combat these habits and symptoms called an occlusal guard.
A majority of grinding or clenching occurs during sleeping. Jaw pain, soreness, and teeth sensitivity are some of the after-effects of teeth grinding. At times, patients may be symptom-free, however, the dentist will notify the patient if wear patterns (flattened cusps on teeth, thinning enamel) are present during their examination and cleaning visit.
An occlusal night guard is an excellent treatment option to combat the effects of grinding. An occlusal night guard is made of a firm plastic type material similar to a protective sports guard that is custom made to your teeth. By wearing the occlusal guard to sleep the jaw muscles relax and grinding and clenching of teeth are limited while sleeping. It is a safe, simple, effective treatment option that can limit teeth grinding, prevent jaw soreness, teeth sensitivity and decrease the risk of cavities as it helps keep the protective enamel layer intact.
