Do you often wake up with tooth pain, a dull headache, or a sore jaw? You may be suffering from a condition known as Bruxism or teeth grinding and/or clenching (usually during sleep). This is a very common condition that effects about 10-15 percent of adults and can lead to more serious issues such as chipped, broken, cracked or damaged teeth. It can also cause headaches and pain in your neck and jaw. According to mayoclinic.org, signs and symptoms of Bruxism may include:

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• Teeth grinding or clenching, which may be loud enough to wake up your sleep partner

• Teeth that are flattened, fractured, chipped or loose

• Worn tooth enamel, exposing deeper layers of your tooth

• Increased tooth pain or sensitivity

• Tired or tight jaw muscles, or a locked jaw that won't open or close completely

• Jaw, neck or face pain or soreness

• Pain that feels like an earache, though it's actually not a problem with your ear

• Dull headache starting in the temples

• Damage from chewing on the inside of your cheek

• Sleep disruption

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If you believe that you or someone you know may be experiencing Bruxism, there may be relief for your symptoms! One of the most common treatments that we offer, is something called a NightGuard.

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A NightGuard is an appliance made with an acrylic resin, a laminate material or a combination of the two that is fabricated from an impression of your mouth to fit over and cover your upper teeth. On few occasions, a NightGuard may be made for lower teeth. When it is worn, it stops the surfaces of your teeth from grinding and clinching together, preventing damage to your teeth. It is usually worn during the night as grinding and clinching by people with Bruxism generally occurs during sleep.

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 There is also the option of purchasing a plastic, over the counter, "boil and bite" NightGuard. As implied by the name, these work by simply boiling the plastic guard, which softens the material, and biting down on it so that it forms to the shape of your teeth. However, while this may be a less expensive option, they are often less comfortable and do not fit as well as a professionally made NightGuard which offers the best quality, comfort and fit.

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