How do you keep your teeth healthy when you go to sleep? For most, brushing and flossing before bed removes deposits of oral bacteria that threaten their oral health. But what do you do if you suspect you clench your jaw or grind your teeth at night? Medically known as bruxism, this habit can be hard to detect and go untreated for a long time. As your behavior progresses, you risk wearing away your enamel and receiving an uneven bite. You can become susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease as the outer layer that protects teeth erodes. As your enamel contributes to the bright white shade of your teeth, its loss can prematurely age you as a yellow shade appears.

Fortunately, at your Cerritos, CA, dentist’s office, we can inspect your mouth for the symptoms of grinding and provide a simple device for halting its damage. Wearing an oral guard while you sleep can help you sleep more comfortably as it separates each row of teeth from wear. After treating the effects of your habit, we can explore practices to restore your smile’s healthy look!

If you suspect you grind or clench your teeth at night, treatment can prevent further damage and complications with your oral health. Because this habit happens while we are asleep, it can be difficult to detect before your teeth are significantly worn. If you do not promptly treat it, erosion of your enamel can cause dental misalignment and make you susceptible to decay and gum disease. Because your protective layer keeps teeth white, wearing it away can lead to a yellow look. When your pulp is exposed to oral bacteria, grinding your teeth, also known as bruxism, can increase your likelihood of a tooth infection.

At your Cerritos, CA dentist’s office, we offer a non-invasive solution for treating bruxism. We can inspect your mouth for its signs and provide an oral guard to protect your teeth while you sleep. By wearing this appliance, you can relieve pressure on your jaw and wake up feeling refreshed.