The Long-Term Effects of Bruxism and How A Custom Nightguard Can Help

Dental bruxism, the chronic grinding or clenching of teeth, can have significant long-term effects on oral health and overall well-being. Occasional teeth grinding may not cause immediate harm, but chronic bruxism can lead to various dental issues and associated complications over time. Therefore, getting a diagnosis from a dentist like Dr. Anu Mohan and her team at I-Rise Dental Boutique is essential. Treatments like dental guards for bruxism make treatment for bruxism easier than ever before.

The Effects of Bruxism on Your Oral Health

One of the primary long-term effects of dental bruxism is tooth wear. The repetitive grinding and clenching motion exert excessive force on the teeth, causing gradual erosion of tooth enamel. This enamel loss can lead to tooth sensitivity, increased risk of cavities, and structural damage to the teeth, such as chips or fractures. Additionally, bruxism can wear down dental restorations like fillings or crowns, necessitating repair or replacement.

Furthermore, persistent bruxism can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. The excessive pressure placed on the jaw joint during grinding and clenching can lead to inflammation, pain, stiffness, and dysfunction of the TMJ. TMJ disorders can result in jaw pain, headaches, earaches, difficulty chewing, and restricted mouth movement, impacting daily activities and quality of life.

In addition to dental and jaw-related issues, untreated bruxism can lead to secondary complications such as sleep disturbances and chronic headaches. The muscle tension and discomfort associated with bruxism can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue, daytime drowsiness, and reduced cognitive function. Chronic headaches, including tension headaches and migraines, are common among individuals with bruxism due to the strain placed on facial muscles and nerves.

Fortunately, using a custom nightguard, also known as an occlusal splint or bite guard, can effectively prevent the long-term consequences of dental bruxism. A custom nightguard is a dental appliance designed to fit snugly over the teeth, providing a protective barrier that cushions the impact of grinding and clenching. By redistributing forces and minimizing contact between the lower and upper arches of teeth, a nightguard helps alleviate pressure on the teeth, joints, and muscles, reducing the risk of enamel wear, tooth damage, and TMJ disorders.

Moreover, wearing a nightguard during sleep can promote relaxation of the jaw muscles, preventing muscle tension and reducing the frequency and intensity of bruxism episodes. This relaxation effect can also improve sleep quality and alleviate associated symptoms.

Learn More About Nightguards

If you are located in Solana Beach, CA, and are interested in learning more about nightguards for bruxism, you can contact Dr. Anu Mohan and the team at I-Rise Dental Boutique in Del Mar, CA. You can reach them by calling (858) 465-8717.