Did you know that grinding your teeth can severely damage your smile? It typically happens at night while you sleep, so you may not even notice that you're doing it.
These concerns can be eliminated with a custom night guard made at Lucio H. Kim, DDS.
Here's what you should know about clenching and grinding your teeth.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) 101
Clenching and grinding your teeth is often a result of stress and most commonly happens during sleep. Some other causes of bruxism may be:
- Tooth and bite misalignment
- Jaw joint dysfunction
- Muscle tension
Getting to the root cause of your tooth grinding helps us determine the best way to protect your smile.
What Are the Risks Associated with Bruxism?
When you clench and grind your teeth, it can create problems with your smile and even your jaw joint. Here are some of the problems that occur when bruxism is left untreated:
- Excessive tooth wear
- Frequent headaches
- Pain or tenderness when biting or chewing
- Fractures, cracks, or damage to your teeth
- Temporomandibular (jaw joint) disorder, or TMD
How Does a Night Guard Help?
We can protect your teeth from the damage bruxism causes with a customized night guard. The night guard fits comfortably over your teeth, much like an orthodontic retainer, to protect them at night while you sleep. It is simple and easy to wear and won't interfere with your rest.
Since it's hard to diagnose bruxism on your own, preventive dentistry is a great way to protect your smile. During your preventive teeth cleanings and checkups, Dr. Kim can identify if bruxism is a problem for you and help you determine the best option for protecting your smile.
If you're concerned about teeth grinding or want to learn more about night guards in Glendale, CA, contact our dental office at (818) 242-3739 to book your next dental visit.