Don't Ruin Your Teeth Grinding, Get a Custom Mouth Guard

You may have cavities and gum disease covered with daily care and routine dental exams. But have you ever thought about damage related to grinding your teeth? We have the facts about this subconscious habit and treatments that solve the issue.

Do you ever wake up with a sore jaw or a dull, achy head? These could be signs of bruxism, the medical term for teeth grinding or jaw clenching.

If left untreated, bruxism can wear down enamel, cause cracks in teeth, or trigger painful jaw disorders like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome.

There is good news, though: a custom mouth guard can save your teeth and relieve your discomfort.

Our services at Geneva Dental and Denture Implant Center in Sun City West, Arizona, include mouth guards customized to fit your mouth and prevent bruxism from damaging your smile.

Read more from our team about bruxism and the benefits of a customized mouth guard.

Bruxism causes

Teeth grinding often happens subconsciously, especially at night. Common causes include:

Stress and anxiety

You may find yourself clenching your jaw during sleep or when feeling anxious, stressed, or frustrated during the day.

Sleep disorders

Conditions like sleep apnea often contribute to nighttime grinding.

Dental issues

Misaligned teeth or an uneven bite can trigger bruxism.

Lifestyle factors

Excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption may increase the risk of bruxism.

Health consequences of grinding your teeth

Chronic teeth grinding can cause:

Tooth damage via enamel erosion and fractures
Tooth loss
Jaw pain caused by chronic clenching
TMJ disorders
Sleep disruption and subsequent fatigue

Damage related to bruxism may eventually require crowns, fillings, and other dental restorations.

Benefits of a customized mouth guard

While over-the-counter (OTC) guards are available, a custom-made mouth guard fitted by a dental professional offers the best defense. Here’s why:

Perfect fit

Custom mouth guards are molded to the unique shape of your teeth, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. Unlike generic options, they stay in place throughout the night.

Durability

Made from high-quality materials, custom guards last longer than store-bought ones, which can wear out quickly.

Comprehensive protection

A custom guard evenly distributes the pressure from grinding, protecting your teeth, gums, and jaw joints.

Personalization

Your dentist can design a guard to address specific needs, such as reducing jaw pain or improving bite alignment.

We can also create custom mouth guards that protect your teeth during sports. Another type we offer, used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), gently shifts your lower jaw forward to help prevent apneic episodes as you sleep.

Getting your custom mouth guard

At Geneva Dental and Denture Implant Center, the process is straightforward and typically involves:

Consultation

Your dentist evaluates your teeth and jaw to determine if you need a guard.

Impressions

We’ll take a mold of your teeth to create a perfectly fitting mouth guard.

Fitting

Once your guard is ready, your dentist ensures it fits comfortably and provides instructions for use.

Additional tips for managing bruxism

In addition to wearing a custom mouth guard, consider these tips to help reduce teeth grinding:

Reduce stress with yoga, meditation, or other relaxation techniques
Avoid caffeine in the evening
Maintain good sleep hygiene with a consistent bedtime routine
Address dental issues, such as misaligned teeth, with your dentist

If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment at Geneva Dental and Denture Implant Center today to discuss your options. Call the office or request an appointment online.