If You Suffer from Bruxism, a Mouth Guard Could Help

It's safe to say that many people are concerned, some even self-conscious about their looks. One part of the body that's usually a person's concern and one of the first things you notice about another person is their teeth. Everyone dreams of having the "perfect smile", pearly whites and all. But for some, teeth color isn't their main concern; it's their teeth in general. Concern for ones teeth is extremely crucial, especially if a medical problem exists. A serious medical issue that affects the teeth is bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding.

When someone suffers from bruxism, they either grind or clench their teeth. Teeth grinding can affect children and adults, and should be taken seriously. In children, teeth grinding can occur as a sign of "an earache or teething, as well as growth and development of the jaw and teeth." Even though there are many causes of teeth grinding, many believe the main cause is due to high levels of stress. Other reasons people grind or clench their teeth include misaligned teeth, other medical conditions and suppressed anger. While teeth clenching and grinding can occur while someone is awake, it typically happens when one is asleep, and can be heard by others sleeping nearby. In some cases, it can wake the teeth grinder up with severe mouth pain, sometimes mouth bleeding. People who severely grind their teeth can suffer from conditions which include jaw disorders, headaches, and one of the most noticeable conditions is damage to the teeth.

Teeth damage can include teeth that are "worn, flattened, fractured or chipped." As soon as a person notices that she or he grinds their teeth, they should see a dentist as soon as possible. In order to prevent teeth damage, a dentist would most likely suggest a person wear a mouth guard while sleeping. A mouth guard can either be custom made by a dentist or they can be purchased at most drug stores. While purchasing mouth guards at drug stores is cheaper than getting one custom made, they often won't fit your mouth as it should. When a person buys a mouth guard to prevent teeth damage from bruxism, one must be sure to buy the ones specifically for that reason. In other words, do not buy a sports mouth guard or wear a sports mouth guard that you may already have. Different mouth guards are meant for specifics reasons and should be used accordingly. One of the worse feelings in the world is to want to smile or laugh but don't due to teeth damage. So, if you suffer from teeth grinding, seek help from a dentist or buy a nightwear mouth guard that will fit your teeth so that you can smile with confidence.

Sources:

Mayo Health Clinic Staff
www.mayoclinic.com/health/bruxism/DS00337
Bruxism/teeth grinding

Kids Health
kidshealth.org/parent/general/teeth/bruxism.html
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding or Clenching)

Teeth Grinding Cure: How To Stop Grinding Your Teeth
www.teethgrindingcure.com/night-mouth-guards-for-teeth-grinding.php
How To Choose Night Mouth Guards For Teeth Grinding