Teeth grinding (bruxism) and night guards in Agadir

What is bruxism?

Bruxism is involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth, mostly at night and sometimes during the day in periods of concentration or stress. The forces involved are far greater than those of normal chewing and are applied for long minutes, which explains the damage to teeth and jaw joints.

Signs of bruxism

Bruxism is often noticed by a partner or at a dental check-up. Common signs are:

• Worn, flattened, shortened or chipped teeth; cracked enamel.
• Sensitivity to cold.
• Jaw muscle pain or tiredness on waking, difficulty opening the mouth.
• Headaches at the temples, ear or neck pain.
• Clicking of the jaw joint.
• Fillings or crowns that keep breaking.

The custom night guard

The standard treatment is an occlusal splint, made to measure from an impression of your teeth. Worn at night, it sits between the arches: it protects enamel and restorations from wear, spreads the forces and helps the muscles relax. It is adjusted at the clinic for comfort and checked regularly.

A custom guard is far more effective and comfortable than boil-and-bite guards, which can make the problem worse by altering the bite.

Treating the causes too

Bruxism is encouraged by stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, some medications, alcohol, tobacco and caffeine. Lifestyle measures, relaxation techniques and sometimes treatment of sleep disorders usefully complement the night guard. When the bite is a factor (missing teeth, poorly adjusted restorations), correcting it is part of the treatment.

Bruxism treatment at Centre Dentaire BAHA, Agadir

Centre Dentaire BAHA makes custom night guards in Agadir after assessing wear, muscles and the jaw joint. A guard can be made within a few days, which suits visitors. The cost is given in a quote at the consultation.