When you have TMJ disorder, or possibly bruxism (teeth grinding), this could lead to persistent discomfort and even increase the risk of damaged teeth and major complications. But we can help treat the source of your discomfort with a simple and comfortable nightguard. In today’s blog, your Cerritos, CA, dentist talks about protecting smiles with a custom nightguard.
The Risks of TMJ Disorder and Bruxism
TMJ disorder is an issue in which strain on your jaw joints has altered how you open and close your mouth, and this can be a major source of discomfort. Bruxism means you grind and clench your teeth on a nightly basis, which can wear down teeth and damage them. Both can be brought on by issues like stress, tooth loss, misalignment, injury to the face or jaw, or issues with the growth and development of your smile. Wisdom tooth eruption could be a factor too!
While these are separate and distinct disorders, one could lead to the other and both cause similar discomfort, including jaw and facial pain, toothaches and tooth sensitivity, and headaches and migraines. When you experience discomfort on a regular basis, be sure to reach out to our team for a solution.
Creating a Custom Appliance
While we could help with the placement of a restoration or by securing a replacement tooth in a dental implant, many people enjoy relief with an oral appliance. The nightguard is worn as you sleep, and is custom-fitted for your smile. When in place, this helps shift the jaw to ease any underlying stress or strain, so you enjoy better bite balance and avoid discomfort. For people who grind their teeth, this puts a soft barrier between the upper and lower sets of teeth to prevent further damage to your smile. The appliance is easy to use and clean, and it can travel with you too! If you have damaged your teeth due to these disorders, we can offer lifelike repair with custom crowns.
Other Helpful Tips
Along with our custom nightguard, you can also make other changes to ease the pressure and symptoms of issues like TMJ disorder and bruxism. For example, you can cut back on caffeinated beverages, and also avoid very hard or chewy foods, which can exacerbate symptoms. Be sure to see your general dentist for a checkup and cleaning every six months, so we can monitor your smile and keep an eye on these disorders to protect your smile.
If you have any questions about our custom nightguards, then contact our office today to learn more.
TALK TO OUR TEAM ABOUT OUR CUSTOM NIGHTGUARDS
To schedule a consultation for a custom and comfortable oral appliance, then make an appointment with Cerritos Dental Surgery in California call 562-584-4082 today. We want to help return your smile to optimal health, function, and beauty.
