Ways to Protect Your Teeth from Nighttime Grinding and Clenching
Posted on 8/10/2020 by Shiv Sharma, DDS
When suffering from stress, anxiety, or changes in the diet, individuals can suffer from bruxism, which is the grinding of teeth during the night. This can result in jaw pain, headaches, and fatigue, as the grinding can often wake the sufferer up. However, there are several ways in which to alleviate these symptoms, which are, fortunately, often short-lived.
Mouth Guards and Mouth Splints
Mouth guards are often the most effective treatment for grinding and clenching of the teeth during the night. They work as a protective layer between the two dental arches and protect the biting surfaces from being worn down. They prevent the individual from waking up due to pain or discomfort and allow for a better night's sleep.
Mouth guards are custom-made in our dental lab and require an appointment to be fitted. Our dentist will take a mold of your mouth, which will be used to make a slim, snugly fitting mouth guard. Mouth guards that can be bought in sports stores are not adequate for sleeping, as they can slip from the dental arch, and are generally bulkier than custom-fit ones, making them more difficult to sleep with.
Mouth splints are similar to mouth guards, but last several years. Mouth guards often need replacing once they are worn down severely, to ensure proper protection of the teeth. Mouth splints are better suited to those consistently suffering from bruxism, or those who have severe teeth grinding.
Talking to one of our dentists can also help inform you about the different changes to your diet and lifestyle, that can help alleviate your grinding and clenching symptoms. A reduction in caffeine and excessive alcohol intake, as well as exercising more regularly, can help relieve bruxism.
Contact our office if you are suffering from teeth grinding or clenching at night. We can investigate your symptoms and explore the possible treatments suitable for you.
Thank you for trusting us with your oral health. Give us a call at (650) 321-9693.
2875 Middlefield Rd, Suite #1 Palo Alto, CA 94306-2548
When suffering from stress, anxiety, or changes in the diet, individuals can suffer from bruxism, which is the grinding of teeth during the night. This can result in jaw pain, headaches, and fatigue, as the grinding can often wake the sufferer up. However, there are several ways in which to alleviate these symptoms, which are, fortunately, often short-lived. 
