Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It's a habit that can happen while you're awake or asleep, and it can cause a range of issues, including headaches, jaw pain, and tooth damage. Fortunately, there's a simple solution to help alleviate the symptoms of teeth grinding: mouth guards.
We'll explore everything you need to know about mouth guards for teeth grinding. From the different types of mouth guards to how to choose the right one for you, we've got you covered.
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a condition where you grind, gnash or clench your teeth. It can happen while you're awake or asleep, and it can be caused by stress, anxiety, or an abnormal bite. While mild cases of bruxism may not require treatment, severe cases can lead to jaw pain, headaches, and tooth damage.
The symptoms of teeth grinding
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a condition where you grind, gnash or clench your teeth. It can happen while you're awake or asleep, and it can be caused by stress, anxiety, or an abnormal bite. While mild cases of bruxism may not require treatment, severe cases can lead to jaw pain, headaches, and tooth damage.
Headaches
Jaw pain
Earaches
Tooth sensitivity
Teeth that are worn down, cracked or chipped
Sleep disturbances
How mouth guards work
Mouth guards work by creating a barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This barrier can help prevent your teeth from grinding against each other, reducing the risk of tooth damage and jaw pain.
There are three main types of mouth guards for teeth grinding:
Stock mouth guards
These are pre-made and come in small, medium, and large sizes. They're the least expensive option, but they may not fit your mouth properly.
Boil-and-bite mouth guards
These mouth guards are made from thermoplastic material that softens when boiled. Once soft, you bite down on the guard to create a custom fit.
Custom-fit mouth guards
These mouth guards are made by a dentist who takes a mold of your teeth. They're the most expensive option, but they offer the best fit and comfort.
How to choose the right mouth guard for you
When choosing a mouth guard, it's important to consider factors such as comfort, fit, and durability. Here are some tips to help you choose the right mouth guard:
Consider the type of mouth guard that best fits your needs
Look for a mouth guard that is comfortable and easy to wear
Ensure that the mouth guard fits properly
Choose a mouth guard made from durable materials
How to care for your mouth guard
Proper care of your mouth guard can help extend its lifespan and keep it hygienic. Here are some tips for caring for your mouth guard:
Rinse your mouth guard with cool water
Brush your mouth guard with a toothbrush and toothpaste after each use
Store your mouth guard in a clean, dry case
Keep your mouth guard away from high temperatures or direct sunlight
Replace your mouth guard if it becomes damaged or worn out
Mouth Guards for Teeth Grinding FAQ's
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Mouth guards can help prevent tooth damage and jaw pain associated with teeth grinding, but they may not prevent the grinding itself.
While mouth guards are primarily designed for teeth grinding, they can also help with snoring by keeping your jaw in a forward position.
The lifespan of a mouth guard can vary depending on factors such as usage and care. Generally, a mouth guard can last between six months to several years.
While mouth guards are commonly used at night to prevent teeth grinding, they can also be worn during the day if necessary.
Mouth guards for teeth grinding are a simple and effective solution to alleviate the symptoms of bruxism. Whether you choose a stock mouth guard, boil-and-bite mouth guard, or custom-fit mouth guard, it's important to choose a mouth guard that fits well and offers the necessary protection.
By following the tips and advice outlined on this page, you can help prevent tooth damage and jaw pain associated with teeth grinding, and enjoy a better night's sleep.
Before and After 📸 Smile Transformation by Dr Johan!
This patient had suffered for years with misaligned, uneven worn teeth and hated smiling.
Dr Johan offered the patient orthodontic treatment and whitening. Because the teeth are so heavily worn the patient also required some restoration to align the edges. The patient decided to go for a veneer treatment. She had a narrow smile line and we only needed to veneer 6 teeth. These teeth were restored with 6 Emax crowns with a natural shade and design. Now she can smile at every opportunity.
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From making the initial call with Sarah to treatment I had a fantastic experience.Amazing... atmosphere, perfect for nervous patients like myself! I have worried for years about going to the dentist and “Sophie & Shannon made it all disappear. They were both so patient with me and reassured me throughout the appointment . Taking time to explain everything and what to expect, I never felt pressured or rushed it was exactly what I needed to gain some confidence. I cannot thank all the staff enough and would recommend to anyone who maybe like myself and have worries and concerns.read more
This practice is by far the very best I have been to - ever! ALL the staff are amazing, from the... warmest of welcomes on reception, to the most fantastic and 'state of the art' dental treatment by an experienced, professional and extremely caring dental team. The premises are inviting, relaxing, and absolutely spotless. I've instantly gone from a terrified patient to feeling reassured and happy with my treatment plan - in a very short period of time. I just wish we had found them sooner, and have absolutely no hesitation in recommending them (in fact I do so at every opportunity!) Never before has a dentist extracted my teeth without sedation, but Dr Johan did so with the very minimum of discomfort. I have now regained my smile, and could not be happier - thank you!read more
Fitted a new bridge tooth in a very small space. The attention to detail and care taken was... excellent. Cannot tell it is not a real tooth and matches perfectly..read more
We lived in Canada for 20 years and when we returned to the UK eight years ago we struggled to find... a hygienist as thorough as our Canadian hygienist. Then we found Ramsbottom Dental Clinic and Kelly the hygienist. She is thorough but gentle and a lovely friendly person. The new premises are lovely with a large airy and bright waiting area. The receptionists are great and always make you feel welcome. I thoroughly recommend this dental practice.Lesley Welbourneread more
I started visiting Ramsbottom Dental care a number of years ago when I heard they were good at... working with anxious patients! I have now used three of the dentists there and am a regular on the dental plan; a regular check up amd hygienist clean for not much more than a tenner a month.Today I had a crown undertaken and cannot fault the work. I didn't feel a thing; fast, efficient and pain-free.All of the staff are friendly, helpful and reassuring; appointments at times convenient to me are always available and I would recommend everyone to give them a try.read more
Would definitely recommend this practice to everyone. Staff are lovely, great service and always a... warm welcome 🤗 I have seen Dr Ronette Gooson for Invisilign and can’t fault her. Always greeted with a friendly smile and she’s an excellent orthodontist.read more
Been going to Ronette and Johan for about 15 years now and they’ve always given me the best... treatment and have a lovely personal approach and really talk you through everything. Recently finished my orthodontics treatment with them and they’ve completely transformed my smile. Thank you so much 😊read more
I have been a patient of Ramsbottom Dental Care for a number of years. First impressions are always... important and I am always greeted by a warm and welcoming reception team. The treatment I receive from Johan and Kelly makes me feel at ease and relaxed and I would have no hesitation in recommending them.read more
Went to see Dr Sophie yesterday with my 12 year old daughter who had chipped her front tooth. ... Sophie & her assistant Jo were absolutely lovely & did the most amazing job restoring her tooth to its former beauty with composite bonding. Thank you soooooo much from both me & Olivia. I am so impressed with this dental practice, from my initial call & correspondence with Sarah, up to the appointment itself & would highly recommend.read more
Really clean and friendly environment. Put at ease by the staff who made sure I was comfortable at... all times. Very happy with the dental work done. Lots of little touches in the practice that make it relaxed and a pleasant place to be. An excellent experience all round and top class service.read more
From making the initial call with Sarah to treatment I had a fantastic experience.Amazing atmosphere, perfect for nervous patients like myself! I have worried for years about going to the dentist... and “Sophie & Shannon made it all disappear. They were both so patient with me and reassured me throughout the appointment . Taking time to explain everything and what to expect, I never felt pressured or rushed it was exactly what I needed to gain some confidence. I cannot thank all the staff enough and would recommend to anyone who maybe like myself and have worries and concerns.read more