About 50-95% of the population are bruxers, half of whom become chronic enough to require treatment. Bruxism can occur at any time, but it’s most common at night while sleeping. Because it happens during sleep, most people don’t know they brux until their dentist tells them that they are showing signs of bruxing. Often a spouse or family member hears the grinding sound. When diagnosed early, teeth grinding can be treated before it causes permanent damage to the teeth.
Causes: Most often, bruxism is related to stress. It may also be a response to pain elsewhere in the body, or the result of misaligned teeth. Alcohol, caffeine and other stimulants can aggravate the condition, causing more severe grinding or clenching.
A night guard is an appliance worn over the teeth to relieve head,neck, jaw joint and shoulder pain caused by bruxing and clenching.
Nightguards protect the teeth from damage done from bruxing. Nightguards are made of a nonallergic material with a clear hard outer and soft inner surface. This material is thermo formed under vaccum for an accurate fit and comfort.