Bruxism, more commonly known as teeth grinding, is one disorder that surely affects all ages. It triggers different dental-related problems: from worn-down teeth and jaw pains to headaches. Luckily, a variety of teeth grinding treatments can help stop this habit, ensuring your smile is protected. In this post, we’ve offered five tried-and-true treatments that should aid with prevention and provide much-needed relief.
1. Night Guards
Night guards are the most commonly used treatment for teeth grinding. These are custom-fitted devices, made by a dentist, which act as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing damage caused by grinding during sleep. Night guards are especially useful teeth grinding treatment options for those who experience bruxism at night. They cushion your teeth, thereby relieving pressure on the jaw and prevent teeth grinding at night.
If you’re looking for night guards in Vancouver, a qualified dentist can create a personalized solution tailored to your needs. Over-the-counter options are also available, but custom night guards offer a better fit and more effective protection.
2. Stress Management
Stress is typically a major component to bruxism. Another option for teeth grinding treatment may be learning how to manage stress effectively. Meditation, yoga, and deep breathing techniques can all help relieve tension and anxiety, which are typical causes of grinding.
The mind and body can be prepared for good sleep by reading or listening to soft music before sleeping. Stress often causes teeth grinding, and this usually subsides when the underlying cause of the stress is handled.
3. Dental Corrections
For some people, teeth grinding may be caused by misaligned teeth or an improper bite. A dentist can assess your dental alignment and recommend an effective method for treatment of bruxism, such as orthodontics or reshaping the surfaces of your teeth.
These corrections not only treat teeth grinding but also improve overall oral health. Dental treatments like these often provide a long-term solution, making them a worthwhile investment in protecting your smile.
4. Muscle Relaxation Exercises
Another option for teeth grinding treatment is practicing muscle relaxation exercises. These exercises are designed to reduce tension in your jaw muscles, which can contribute to grinding. A simple technique involves gently massaging the jaw and surrounding areas to release tightness.
In more severe cases, physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen and relax the jaw muscles. This approach not only prevents teeth grinding but also alleviates associated symptoms like jaw pain and headaches, the most common form of teeth grinding treatment.
5. Lifestyle Change
Sometimes, simple alterations in one’s daily life may significantly change the situation about bruxism. Avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol and coffee in the evenings to help manage grinding. In addition, chewing on any type of gum or chewing non-food objects is harmful since they put significant pressure on jaw muscles.
A consistent bedtime routine can also make a difference. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps regulate your sleep cycle, reducing the chances of grinding your teeth at night.
Choosing the Right Teeth Grinding Treatment
The right treatment that you would adopt for grinding teeth serves to ensure protecting your oral well-being and beyond. You should opt for whatever suits you more, such as night guards or stress management practices, dental correction, or possibly a lifestyle adaptation.
If you’re seeking a professional dentist in Vancouver, the Dentists at Oakridge are here to help. Our team specializes in creating custom night guards and providing comprehensive dental care to treat teeth grinding and its underlying causes. Visit our clinic to find the most effective method for treatment of bruxism and protect your teeth from grinding at night.
