When you grind or clench your teeth throughout the night, damage to your enamel puts you at risk for decay, and disease, and shifts the alignment of your bite. Although the occasional biting of your teeth can be quite normal, when this behavior known as bruxism becomes habitual, it can quickly threaten your oral health. This physical erosion accelerates chemical damage from the acidic waste products of oral bacteria that gather on your teeth. This means that nights of grinding contribute to cavities and gum disease. The loss of your bright white layer also affects your appearance and can give a much more aged, yellow look. This can happen from grinding even when you practice perfect brushing and flossing habits!
At your Ankeny, IA, dental practice, we can help you stop the effects of nightly bruxism. When you wear a nightly oral guard, you can separate each row of teeth to end the contact pressure of rubbing your teeth back and forth. This can greatly improve the quality of your sleep when you wake up without constant soreness in your jaw joints and facial muscles.
Putting An End To Nightly Grinding And Clenching
It can be difficult to discover you have a bruxism habit because it happens when you are asleep! While you may discover the effects of nightly grinding once significant damage occurs, do not wait for your bite’s alignment to shift before you explore if you clench your teeth. Ask a family member to watch for movement in your mouth while you sleep. They may be able to hear the sound of your teeth grinding as well. Talk to your dentist if your teeth become more sensitive. We can inspect your smile for physical signs of constant wear.
Treatment For Your Bruxism Habit
If we confirm that you grind and clench your teeth at night, we can provide an oral guard to wear while you sleep. Made from a BPA-free material, this device separates each row of teeth to prevent damage from constant friction. A guard also relieves tension in your jaw and allows your joints and muscles to relax for a better night’s rest.
We can explore cosmetic options to restore your smile’s appearance as well. Treatments such as porcelain veneers can restore the height of worn-down teeth and enhance shade if you experience discoloration from the loss of your tooth’s enamel. The right approach can help you transform your smile with minimal work!
Speak With Your Ankeny, IA Dentist About Wearing An Oral Guard To Protect Your Teeth From Bruxism
Our practice can help you stop the nightly wear and tear of bruxism and restore the beauty of your smile. For more information or to schedule a visit, contact your Ankeny, IA, dentist’s office at 515-207-6182. We proudly serve patients from Alleman, Elkhart, Bondurant, and any other surrounding community as well!
