Your enamel is the strongest substance in your body, and because you need your teeth for chewing, it can withstand a lot of force; however, nothing is indestructible. When your tooth enamel meets opposing tooth enamel, or when you have trauma to your mouth, problems and breakdown can occur.
Millions of Americans clench and grind their teeth. This unconscious habit can come from being under stress, having a certain type of personality, or even from taking certain medications. In other cases, teeth grinding can have a biological origin, such as a misaligned bite or problems with your jaw.
Many patients are not even aware of their clenching or grinding habit unless a partner tells them they grind in their sleep or if we see the signs during a comprehensive examination. Some of the signs of clenching or teeth grinding include:
When you grind or clench your teeth, you can cause them to wear, chip, or even split. Such damage can be painful and costly. At Alliance Dental, Dr. Spaska Malaric may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth and jaws.
Night guards are generally made of an acrylic foundation and separate your upper teeth from your lower teeth with the acrylic barrier. A custom night guard, which you can only receive from your dentist, is far superior to over-the-counter guards due to their custom fit. Having a custom night guard means that it will fit securely on your teeth and is highly unlikely to come out while you sleep. It will also feel less bulky because it is designed just for you.
Call Alliance Dental today at (239) 939-2433 and schedule an evaluation with our experienced and gentle dentist. She will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision regarding your dental health. We look forward to hearing from you!
