Alternatives to a Night Guard?
Grinding the teeth of bruxism is a common oral health issue which affects patients. The issue can take place during the day but is especially common at night when the patient is asleep. While bruxism may not seem like a major issue, it can cause serious problems including tension headaches, jaw pain, damage to the teeth, and various other issues.
A night guard is often used to treat the symptoms associated with bruxism. In addition to night guards, there are night guard alternatives which can be used. Below is a summary of night guard alternatives for the treatment of teeth grinding.
Botox
Patients sometimes grind their teeth because their jaw muscles are tense, and the issue is not related to any problems related to their teeth. The ongoing movements of the jaw are the real problem. One alternative treatment option is Botox which can help relieve jaw muscle tension.
Initially, Botox was primarily used for cosmetic purposes, but it is now used for a variety of purposes including muscle-related problems. The dentist will strategically inject Botox into the jaw muscle which forces the muscle to relax and prevents the chronic clenching of the jaw.
Botox will not last forever and the results eventually wear off. The longevity of the Botox will vary from patient to patient. It is often recommended that patients repeat treatments every few months to maintain the effects of this treatment. When Botox is used in the jaw, the goal is to teach the body to stop clenching the jaw muscle and relax.
Training with Biofeedback
Another night guard alternative treatment is biofeedback treatments. The goal with this method is to train the jaw to stop clenching and relax. The treatment uses a small electrode to monitor the jaw’s activity during sleep. When jawbone tension is detected, a response is triggered and alerts the body with a vibration or audible sound. The biofeedback device is usually attached behind the patient’s ears or to the back of their head.
Over time, the biofeedback trains the body to stop clenching the jaw. The device initially alerts the body of the clenching and eventually trains the patient to be aware of the tension without the use of the device.
The treatment duration will vary based on numerous factors and can require anywhere from a few weeks to months. This will depend on how quickly the body is trained and responds. Feedback from the device will be reviewed by the dental professional and they will adjust as needed.
Occlusal Splints
Teeth grinding can also be treated with an occlusal splint, which is another alternative to a night guard. Night guards create a barrier between the teeth and prevent damage from the extreme forces of grinding. Night guards unfortunately fail to correct the underlying issue. Occlusal splints are worn at night and actually reposition the jaw muscles, preventing patients from grinding.
Occlusal splints are sometimes preferred because they establish the correct position of the teeth. In some cases, grinding is due to misalignment or bite issues. The splint is effective in preventing damage while simultaneously putting the teeth and jaw in the correct position. Over time, grinding is minimized or eliminated entirely.
If you suspect that you may be grinding your teeth at night, contact the office to discuss your treatment options. The team can help determine if you may benefit from a night guard, or another alternative to ensure your teeth are protected.