Clenching & Grinding

Signs of Clenching & Grinding

Early warning signs of clenching & grinding include: sensitive teeth, waking up with headaches, teeth darkening, worn-down teeth, and gum recession. Over time, these common issues cause thinning of tooth enamel, which may generate irreversible damage. The long-term friction can result in severe gum recession, damaged crowns and bridges, fractured teeth, and in extreme situations – temporomandibular joint disorder. TMJ syndrome is a muscular problem that causes pain, difficulty chewing, a limited range of motion, and a ‘clicking’ sound within the jaw.

Causes of Clenching & Grinding

Clenching & grinding are problems that many people experience and are often caused by stress and anxiety. Some patients are fully aware that they are clenching & grinding, but most have no idea. We provide our patients with methods to best manage these causes during their daily lives, and while they sleep.

How we Treat Clenching & Grinding

To help prevent further damage, our dentists will thoroughly inspect your mouth for any irregular signs of friction. A nightguard may be the solution for you if there are indications that you clench or grind your teeth. By using a nightguard, your teeth will be fully protected from all clenching & grinding while you sleep.

How we Create A Perfectly Fitting Nightguard for You

Your dentist will first take an impression of your entire mouth and produce a 3D representation of your teeth. This model is then shared with a local dental lab where a perfectly fitting nightguard is created. We will schedule a follow-up appointment once we receive your nightguard to ensure it fits properly. We will make any necessary adjustments if there are any problems with your nightguard. Our patients’ comfort is our top priority, which is why we guarantee your nightguard will fit seamlessly.