Your teeth can become damaged from the gradual wear and tear of daily life as the years go by, but erosion to the tooth’s surface from simple biting and chewing is generally minimal. If you experience serious wear to the enamel of your teeth, you may be grinding and clenching your teeth at night without even knowing it. The problem, when not addressed, can cause stress and pain in your jaw. Concerns that are once cosmetic can progress to actual oral health emergencies as damage to the enamel exposes the inside of your tooth and creates opportunity for infection. Your bite can become misaligned as the surfaces become uneven. Fortunately, your Cerritos, CA dentist’s office offers treatment to prevent teeth grinding at night. We can also discuss solutions to repair damage to your teeth from habitual grinding and restore your confidence in the health of your smile.
Oral Night Guards Treat Unconscious Harm
When we see the effects of nightly grinding and clenching, we seek to prevent any further wear and tear from harming your enamel. Our office can provide a custom-designed oral appliance that fits the individual shape of your bite. Worn before bed each evening, a night guard prevents you from unconsciously destroying the healthy structure of your teeth. The guard also relieves the pressure placed upon your jaw joints from clenching. That pressure, when not addressed, can lead to headaches and migraines. Without a guard, your nightly grinding can cause further physical damage, tooth decay, and increase your risk of gum disease from bacterial infection. Therefore, it is important to take prompt action and seek a solution with your dentist.
Fixing Your Smile After Teeth Grinding
Treating your smile after you experience problems with grinding and clenching can give you confidence in your appearance and improve your bite. We will review and determine which services, such as a dental crown, can repair existing damage to your teeth and create a more beautiful smile. A crown prevents further harm to a vulnerable tooth because it fully surrounds the visible structure. This allows the tooth to handle the pressure of your bite at mealtime. We can also determine if you are a candidate for porcelain veneers. Veneers cover the wear and tear of nightly grinding by applying a layer of porcelain to the front of one’s tooth. This layer covers chips and cracks and can match the desired color to blend in with your natural teeth.
Speak With Your Cerritos, CA Dentist About Treating Nightly Teeth Grinding
Grinding and clenching can harm your teeth while you sleep. The use of a nightly guard will reduce your risk for developing further oral health problems. To find out how we provide a solution that offers important protection, and treat existing damage from grinding, please call your Cerritos, CA dentist’s office at (562)584-4082!
