Teeth grinding during sleep is common and a lot of people suffer from this condition, which is also known as bruxism. The good news is that if you do grind your teeth at night, there are things you can do to stop it and both your doctor and dentist can provide you with a suitable solution. There are a number of remedies for this problem and some may work better than others, depending on the underlying cause of your teeth grinding and its symptoms.
The following are just some of the remedies you can consider:
Mouthguards
This is a common solution that can help with sleep bruxism. Mouthguards serve as cushions for your teeth and can stop them from grinding against each other while you sleep. Depending on the severity of your situation, mouthguards can be custom made and these can help protect your teeth from damage. They can also reduce the strain on your jaw and while they may cost a little more than other options, they are effective and will be worth it. They are available in different degrees of thickness and will be fitted specifically to your jaw’s size and shape and because they are made of softer materials, custom mouthguards are more comfortable than over-the-counter options.
Reductive Coronoplasty
This is a dental procedure that can be used to reshape or level the biting surface of your teeth. It is an effective option for those whose grinding is caused by crowded, misaligned or crooked teeth. A dentist would be able to perform this procedure and will be able to tell you whether or not you are a suitable candidate for this option.
Botox
Injections of botulinum toxin, also known as Botox, can reduce pain and the frequency of teeth grinding for patients who are healthy. If this is an option you are considering, it is best to discuss both the benefits and risks with your doctor to determine whether or not this is a suitable option for you. While Botox cannot cure bruxism, it can help relax the large muscle that moves the jaw and this can alleviate your grinding.
Stress Reduction
For a lot of people, teeth grinding is associated with stress, anxiety and depression. These conditions can cause you to grind your teeth while you sleep, and stress reduction techniques may be able to help. Reducing your stress levels can also benefit your overall health, so it is definitely an option worth considering. Meditation, yoga and exercise are all examples of techniques you can try.
If you are dealing with bruxism, Dentistry in Newmarket can help. Our reputable dentists can offer you different solutions and we offer both night guards and sports guards for patients who are interested. If you want a family dentist you can trust, give our office a call today!
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