Some people suffer from bruxism which is referred to as teeth grinding. It mostly occurs at night and unknown to the person, emitting a loud, disturbing noise. Medically there is much more to that than the noise factor.

Grinding affects the teeth, the gums and the jaw. It is something that can be treated at an early stage. Doing so also reduces the chances of any potential harm. The treatment ranges from prescribed exercises, medications, surgery or even changes in the lifestyle. Often external aids like night guards help protect the teeth and overcome the problem.

What are night guards?

Night guards are made of a special plastic and are a protective cover that protect teeth from touching the other set while sleeping. Mainly a night guard is used at night, as that is when the patient loses control and has the tendency of grinding teeth severely. Grinding teeth at night puts more pressure on the teeth and therefore is an attributed cause for more damage. Dentists feel that a night guard is strong enough to protect the teeth.

How a night guard can help you

Often a night guard is customized to fit the patient. Your dentist fits a temporary night guard into the bite pattern and gets the right impression. It is then sent to a dental lab where a perfect fit is made. It therefore fits the patient perfectly and according to his or her natural setting. Being perfectly customized it also remains in place throughout the night and does not fall off. Sure enough this reduces the pressure on the jaw and the teeth and reduces soreness and pain as well.

Bruxism is a common phenomenon that affects children and adults. Children often overcome the problem as they grow, but for adults it calls for attention and the need to see a dentist. It is best nipped at the earlier stages than waiting for the worst to happen.