THE ADVANTAGES OF OCCLUSAL SPLINTS FOR TEETH GRINDING
Are you tired of waking up with jaw pain or experiencing unexplained headaches? 😣
Our latest blog has the perfect solution for you!
Dive into the world of occlusal splints and discover how these custom-fitted wonders can protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding and clenching.
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a common dental issue that affects many individuals, often unknowingly.
This condition can occur during the day or, more commonly, at night while you are sleeping.
The continuous grinding and clenching of teeth can lead to various dental problems, including worn enamel, jaw pain, headaches, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
You can see on this photo how the teeth have been worn down due to Bruxism, or teeth grinding.
4 BIGGEST CAUSES OF TEETH GRINDING
1. STRESS AND ANXIETY High levels of stress and anxiety are among the leading causes of bruxism. Stress often involves tension in the jaw muscles, leading to grinding or clenching of the teeth. This is particularly common during sleep, and individuals may be unaware of the behaviour.
2. SLEEP DISORDERS Bruxism is frequently linked to sleep disorders, such as sleep apnoea. Interruptions in normal sleep patterns or difficulties achieving deep sleep can contribute to teeth grinding. Sleep-related bruxism is most prevalent during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep.
3. MISALIGNED TEETH AND BITE ISSUES An improper bite or misaligned teeth (malocclusion) can result in an imbalance in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together. In an attempt to find a more comfortable position, individuals may grind their teeth. Dental conditions that affect the alignment of the jaw can contribute to bruxism.
4. LIFESTYLE FACTORS Certain lifestyle factors, including the consumption of stimulants, can contribute to bruxism. 💥 Caffeine 💥 Alcohol 💥 Recreational Drugs 💥 Smoking is also associated with a higher risk of bruxism.
ADVANTAGES OF OCCLUSAL SPLINTS
1. PROTECTION OF TOOTH ENAMEL Occlusal splints act as a cushion, absorbing the forces generated during teeth grinding. This helps to protect the enamel from excessive wear and tear, preserving the structural integrity of the teeth.
2. PAIN RELIEF AND TMJ MANAGEMENT For individuals experiencing jaw pain or symptoms of TMJ disorders due to bruxism, occlusal splints can provide relief. By redistributing the pressure on the jaw joint, these devices contribute to a more comfortable and pain-free experience.
3. PREVENTION OF HEADACHES AND FACIAL PAIN Bruxism is often associated with tension headaches and facial pain. Occlusal splints help relax the jaw muscles, reducing the likelihood of headaches and alleviating discomfort in the facial region.
4. CUSTOMIZED COMFORT Clubb Dental ensures that each occlusal splint is custom-fitted to the unique contours of an individual's teeth. This personalized approach not only maximizes comfort but also enhances the effectiveness of the splint in preventing teeth grinding.
5. PRESERVATION OF DENTAL WORK Individuals with dental restorations, such as crowns or bridges, can benefit from occlusal splints. These devices help protect and extend the lifespan of dental work by minimizing the impact of bruxism-related forces.
Occlusal splints offer a simple yet powerful way to safeguard your teeth from the detrimental effects of bruxism.
If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth, we encourage you to schedule an appointment to explore the benefits of occlusal splints tailored to your unique needs.
Embrace comfort, protect your smile, and take a proactive step towards optimal oral health.