CREDIT RIVER DENTAL CENTRE Because no two smiles are alike
CREDIT RIVER DENTAL CENTRE Because no two smiles are alike
All patients visiting our clinic are required to complete the Patient Screening Form before their visit.
Bruxism is the dental term used for teeth grinding. According to the American Dental Association, bruxism affects approximately 10 to 15 percent of adults.
Symptoms of bruxism can include waking up with a sore jaw, headaches which can sometimes even radiate to your shoulders and back, and even tooth pain or sensitivity.
Tooth grinding can be caused by a number of different factors including stress and anxiety. It often occurs during sleep although recent studies have reported that day time grinding can be just as damaging to the teeth and is now thought to be responsible for a large percentage of tooth wear found. Tooth grinding can also be caused by sleep disorders such as sleep apnea.
First of all, we need to determine whether the grinding is caused by a sleep disorder. It has been reported that in 50% of all patients that wear night guards and have sleep apnea, the sleep apnea was made worse. It is therefore paramount that you are screened for sleep apnea prior to having a nightguard fabricated. The American College of Prosthodontists released a Position Statement advising a mandatory sleep screening questionnaire prior to nightguard fabrication. If it has been determined that there is no sleep disordered breathing, one of the ways to alleviate the effects of bruxism is with a night guard.
This is an appliance typically worn while sleeping through the night. Its main function is to prevent the surfaces of your teeth from grinding together, which can cause your teeth to chip and crack and strain your jaw muscles. A dental impression is first taken at our office which is then made at a dental laboratory. After about a week after the impression is taken, the patient returns to the office to have the nightguard fitted.
If bruxism has been determined and no nightguard is made, consequences can include the wearing down of teeth which can destroy tooth enamel and can chip or crack teeth. Unfortunately, once enamel has been destroyed, it cannot be replaced.
Yes. In light of recent findings about the association between grinding and sleep apnea, unless otherwise indicated, it is preferable to have a lower nightguard made as it will have less impact on obstructing your airway.
Rinsing your night guard in mouthwash will help kill the germs left on your nightguard. After you have rinsed it in mouthwash rinse it with cool water. Do NOT soak your nightguard in mouthwash, as that can cause damage. Then gently brush your nightguard and then rinse with cool water.
How often should I clean my nightguard?
After each use.
If you find your night guard uncomfortable, there are other possible treatments that you can ask us about.
The most important thing to know about bruxism is that it can be treated with the help of a dentist so please do not hesitate to ask us any questions you may have if you suspect that you may be grinding your teeth. Call us today at Credit River Dental Centre to schedule your appointment!
Our team is truly passionate about what we do and can’t wait to be your Oral Health Partners in helping you reach your Optimal Oral Health! Our customized patient care will help you achieve your goals so that your SMILE will last a lifetime…After all, No Two Smiles Are Alike!