Find Solutions For An Aching Jaw
Are you tired of waking up with a sore jaw and headaches? You might be one of the millions of people who grind their teeth at night, also known as bruxism. Bruxism is a common sleep disorder that can have serious consequences if left untreated. But don’t worry — there are solutions!
At North Texas Sleep Solutions, Keller, TX, sleep dentist Dr. Rebecca Lauck and her team specialize in helping patients like you find relief from chronic teeth grinding. In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes and consequences of bruxism, and how customized night guards can provide the solutions you’ve been searching for.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is a condition where you unconsciously grind, clench, or gnash your teeth, often while you’re sleeping. This can lead to various dental and health problems if left untreated.
Causes of Bruxism
Bruxism can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Stress and Anxiety: One of the most common causes of bruxism is stress and anxiety. When you’re feeling stressed or anxious, your body may respond by clenching or grinding your teeth to release tension.
- Sleep Disorders: Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, can also contribute to bruxism. When you have a sleep disorder, your brain may try to compensate by grinding your teeth at night.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants and stimulants, can also trigger bruxism as a side effect.
- Misaligned Bite: If your teeth are not properly aligned, it can put extra strain on your jaw muscles, leading to bruxism.
- Genetics: Some people may be more prone to bruxism due to their genetic makeup.
Consequences of Bruxism
If left untreated, bruxism can lead to a variety of dental and health problems, including:
- Tooth Damage: Constant grinding and clenching can wear down your tooth enamel, causing it to become sensitive, chipped, or even cracked.
- Jaw Pain: Bruxism can cause your jaw muscles to become sore and strained, leading to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and chronic headaches.
- Sleep Disruption: The noise and movement of grinding teeth can disrupt your sleep, leaving you tired during the day.
- Increased Risk of Tooth Loss: Severe bruxism can even lead to tooth loss if the damage is extensive enough.
How a Custom Night Guard Can Help
The good news is that there are effective treatments available for bruxism, and one of the most effective is a custom night guard from a sleep dentist. A night guard is a plastic mouthpiece that fits over your teeth and prevents them from grinding against each other while you sleep.
Here are some of the key benefits of a custom night guard:
- Protects Your Teeth: A night guard creates a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding and wearing down.
- Reduces Jaw Pain: By taking the pressure off your jaw muscles, a night guard can help alleviate pain and discomfort in your jaw and face.
- Improves Sleep: By reducing the noise and movement associated with bruxism, a night guard can help you sleep more soundly and wake up feeling more rested.
- Customized Fit: Unlike over-the-counter night guards, a custom night guard fits your mouth, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness.
Discover Your Personalized Teeth Grinding Solution
At North Texas Sleep Solutions, Dr. Rebecca Lauck and her team of sleep dentists have extensive experience in treating bruxism with custom night guards. We use advanced technology and techniques to create a night guard tailored to your oral anatomy and needs.
Don’t let bruxism ruin your sleep and your dental health. Contact North Texas Sleep Solutions today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a happier, healthier smile.