Have you ever woken up with a sore jaw or noticed that your teeth feel sensitive during the day? These could be signs that you need a mouthguard. Mouthguards are dental devices that can protect your teeth and jaw from grinding, clenching, or other habits. Here are seven signs that indicate you might need a mouthguard:
1. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Grinding your teeth, also called bruxism, can happen during the day or night while asleep. You might not realize you’re doing it until you start experiencing symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth.
If you frequently wake up with a sore jaw or feel tooth sensitivity, you should consult your dentist about getting a mouth guard for grinding teeth.
2. Jaw Pain or Tension
If you often experience jaw pain, tension, or stiffness, especially in the mornings, it could be a sign of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Various factors, including teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or jaw misalignment, can cause TMJ. A mouthguard can help alleviate pressure on the jaw joint and reduce discomfort.
3. Tooth Sensitivity
Do you feel a sweet yet impactful pain when you eat or drink something hot, cold, or sweet? Tooth sensitivity can result from enamel erosion, which can occur due to grinding or clenching your teeth. A mouthguard can act as a barrier between your teeth, preventing further damage to the enamel and reducing sensitivity.
4. Worn-down Teeth
Excessive grinding or clenching can cause your teeth to wear down over time. Addressing the underlying issue is essential to prevent further damage if your teeth are flattened, chipped, or cracked. A mouthguard can help protect your teeth from the forces generated by grinding and clenching, preserving their structure and integrity.
5. Frequent Headaches
Chronic headaches, especially ones that occur upon waking up or throughout the day, can indicate bruxism-related muscle tension or temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Wearing custom-fit mouthguards can reduce the strain on your jaw muscles and joints, potentially alleviating headaches caused by these conditions.
6. Damaged Dental Work
If you have dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or veneers, grinding or clenching your teeth can put them at risk of damage. Over time, the excessive pressure can cause these restorations to crack, chip, or dislodge. A mouthguard can help protect your dental work investment by evenly distributing the forces across your teeth.
7. Sleep Disruption
Having bruxism can disturb your sleep schedule, leaving you tired and drowsy during the day. If you frequently wake up feeling unrested or experience insomnia, it could be due to unconscious teeth grinding during the night. Wearing a mouthguard near you while you sleep can help reduce grinding-related disturbances, allowing you to enjoy a more restful night’s sleep.
Wrapping It Up
If you experience any of the signs mentioned above, it’s essential to consult with your dentist in SE Edmonton to determine whether a mouthguard is right for you. A custom-fitted mouthguard can provide a comfortable and effective solution for protecting your teeth and jaw from the harmful effects of grinding, clenching, or other habits.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—take proactive steps to safeguard your oral health and overall well-being with a mouthguard today. South Side Dental can identify if you need a mouthguard and customize one, ensuring optimal protection against teeth grinding, jaw pain, and other related issues.
