Both children and adults grind their teeth. While children seem to outgrow bruxism, the American Dental Association (ADA) says adults can struggle with it for years because of:
Causes and results of tooth grinding
- a misaligned bite
- allergies
- sleep apnea and other sleep-related disorders
A night guard can be a solution
Your dentist may be able to help with tooth grinding. After an oral examination to pinpoint causes and possible treatments for bruxism, the dentist may recommend acrylic or thermoplastic mouth guard fitted over the upper or lower teeth. While sporting goods stores and pharmacies sell over the counter and "boil and bite" guards to protect an individual's teeth from injury during sports and exercise, these devices are generally not considered adequate to treat a serious tooth clenching problem.
A custom-made nightguard fits a patient's mouth exactly because the dentist takes an impression of the teeth and sends it to a dental lab. A skilled technician fabricates the guard according to the impression and the dentist's instructions. Worn at night, a custom mouth guard separates and cushions the upper and lower teeth and significantly reduces the destructive forces caused by grinding.
Some conditions related to tooth grinding may need more aggressive therapy. Some individuals need pharmaceutical muscle relaxants and relaxation therapies to control their symptoms. The primary physician and dentist are the best people to consult for a solution to tooth grinding.
