Night Guards for Teeth Grinding

Night Guards

Many adults with clenching and grinding habits require the use of a night guard appliance or occlusal guard. Some signs to indicated that nighttime clenching and grinding include:

• Headaches

• Jaw soreness

• Generalized tooth sensitivity

• Fractured or chipping of teeth

• Abnormal wear of teeth surfaces

Causes in Adults

Stress is the main cause of clenching and grinding in adults. However, it can also be caused by sleeping disorders or by the way the teeth fit together. Many patients aren’t aware that they clench or grind because it often happens in their sleep.

Causes in Children

Teeth grinding in children is fairly common. While teeth grinding in adults is often the result of stress, the same is not usually true with children. The main causes of teeth grinding in children include airway/allergy issues or misaligned teeth. Because their teeth and jaws change and grow so quickly, it is not usually a damaging habit that requires treatment. Most outgrow this habit over time.

Treatment

If you are diagnosed with clenching or grinding, our doctors will recommend a custom-fit nightguard to protect your teeth and jaw. In some cases, your dentist or physician may also recommend taking a muscle relaxant before bedtime. If stress is the cause, try and find a way to relax. Meditation, counseling, and exercise can all help reduce stress and anxiety. If you’re concerned about teeth grinding, ask our doctors about the potential causes and solutions.