Bruxism awareness as part of UK Mouthguard Day

Bruxism is a common condition amongst adults and children alike. It is the term for uncontrolled jaw movements and abrasive patterns when teeth clench or grind at night, often unbeknownst to the sufferer while they are asleep.

It can become problematic if it causes headaches, toothache, jaw pain or material damage to teeth. If any of the aforementioned turn into recurring issues, it is worth contacting a dentist to discuss the impact of bruxism on your oral health and to seek immediate solutions.

Many people wear mouthguards to offer protection against the wear and tear of teeth grinding. Mouthguards are known by different names such as nightguards, dental guards, occlusal glands or nocturnal bite plates. They are a popular and durable option for protecting either the upper or lower set of teeth, and serve to cushion them from clenching, grinding, headaches or inflamed gums, a symptom of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder.

Mouthguards are not a quick-fix solution for bruxism, which may require a deeper analysis of misaligned teeth or emotional stress, but they are recommended as a way of protecting teeth against discomfort, erosion or damage. Different types of mould are available, from DIY ones you bite into after heating in a microwave, to professionally customised plates at a dental surgery.

UK Mouthguard Day in September seeks to raise awareness of the issues around bruxism, which if left untreated, could leave your teeth in a state of serious disrepair. If you suffer from teeth grinding or misaligned teeth, and require the services of specialist orthodontics in Chester, contact Art of Dental Care today to set up an appointment.