Will a Night Guard Change Your Bite?
Many patients are affected by bruxism or teeth grinding and jaw clenching. This condition can take place during the day or when patients are asleep. Patients who grind their teeth at night may know they are affected by the habit until their dentist makes them aware of it. Untreated bruxism can cause serious oral health issues and result in damage to the teeth.
Detection
During a routine dental visit, the dentist will check for signs of bruxism. A night guard is often recommended once there are signs of grinding and clenching. The guard protects the teeth from the extreme forces of grinding which can ultimately damage the teeth. Night guards help to alleviate pain, eliminate sensitivity, and prevent other oral health issues. There are various types of night guards which can also range in cost. Custom night guards are costly and created in the dental office using special equipment. Over-the-counter night guards are more affordable and easily purchased at various stores.
Cause
Bruxism can be caused by various things including stress or anxiety. In other cases, there may not be a specific cause for the condition. It may also be associated with a serious condition called sleep apnea. When patients use a night guard for grinding caused by sleep apnea, the teeth are protected but the sleep apnea is not properly addressed.
A night guard is the preferred treatment for bruxism as it addresses the symptoms and prevents serious damage. Unfortunately, this often means that the underlying cause of the issue is not properly treated. It is important to determine and treat the underlying cause of grinding, when possible.
Night Guard
Night guards are a thin, plastic shield that rest on the top surface of the teeth. The guard absorbs most of the forces of the clenching and grinding. It is common for grooves to develop in the night guard where it absorbs the pressure which would normally affect the teeth. These devices are effective in protecting the teeth from serious damage.
Challenges and Limitations
When purchasing an over-the-counter night guard, it is important for patients to monitor their bite. These devices are more affordable, but often made with lower quality materials which can impact on the fit. If the guard fits poorly, it can result in discomfort and other issues.
Bite Changes
It is not common, but it is possible for a night guard to change your bite. In some cases, it may result in the patient developing an open bite. bite issues often require time consuming and expensive orthodontic treatments. Patients should work with their dentist to ensure their bite is not affected and there is no shift in their teeth. It is possible for a night guard to put pressure on the teeth and result in the teeth gradually shifting.
If a patient has gum disease, they are at an increased risk for bite issues and should be closely monitored. Their tooth structure can be weak, which causes the teeth to be more sensitive and susceptible to movement from a night guard.
If you suspect that you grind your teeth at night, call the office today to determine if you may be a good candidate for a night guard. The team can answer any questions you have regarding the device.