Nightguards discreetly, comfortably protect the teeth from damage caused by bruxism and improves TMJ symptoms

At Scenic Bluffs Dental, we are committed to care that is gentle, painless, stress-free, no-fear, convenient, precise, and inviting. What do all these features add up to? An awesome experience! When we support pleasant visits, our team gets to know you and your family. After all, you are more than happy to return to our practice in Prescott, Wisconsin, for the care that you deserve. That feature, relationship-building and “getting to know you,” is very important. During regular visits, Drs. Jay Feuillerat and Samantha Clare may detect problems you didn’t even know you had, such as bruxism.

Custom-fit nightguards for bruxism

Bruxism is characterized by chronic teeth grinding and jaw clenching. It often occurs at night while sleeping; however, patients may also experience “awake bruxism.” Those who grind their teeth during the day may do so without thinking, as they are concentrating deeply on work or are stressed about a family or professional crisis. Stress has also been implicated in night or “nocturnal bruxism.” Other potential causes of habitual teeth grinding range from oral and maxillofacial imbalances to medical conditions (such as sleep-disordered breathing or apnea) and medications or substances like caffeinated drinks and products. 

Our dentists may suspect that you are unknowingly grinding your teeth if he notices signs such as:

• Damage to dental restorations 
• Chips or excessive wear and tear on the teeth
• Heightened tooth sensitivity
• Loose teeth 
• Tight jaw muscles 

Patients may also complain about jaw stiffness or limited mobility, especially when opening and closing the mouth. They may be affected by frequent tension headaches, earaches, or pain throughout the face, jaw, neck, shoulders, and back. Some of these symptoms are associated with another condition often linked to bruxism: Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD). Disordered TM joints that connect the skull and jaw share many of the same symptoms due to the stress placed on the joints from habits, behaviors, or medical conditions (like arthritis). It is generally thought that the force placed on the teeth and the rest of the mouth from bruxism can also stress the joints, leading to TMJ symptoms. 

Just as there are many potential causes of bruxism, there are many possible treatments. For instance, our dentsits may recommend relaxation techniques, jaw and tongue exercises, or orthodontic treatments to promote a balanced bite.

Additionally, we use advanced diagnostic tools and considerable expertise to design oral appliances that are custom-fitted to your mouth. These “nightguards” cushion the teeth and surrounding tissues from the forces placed on them by chronic teeth grinding and jaw clenching. These lightweight appliances, in turn, protect the teeth and interconnected structures from damage. Alternately, NTI appliances or occlusal splints protect the teeth and prevent the back teeth from touching when you bite down as you grind your teeth. When the opposing back teeth in the upper and lower jaws do not make contact, your teeth and mouth do not bear the full brunt of the pressure placed on them from bruxing. Accordingly, patients may experience relief from TMJ symptoms such as chronic headaches or jaw pain. 

You deserve to lead your life to the fullest and enjoy your healthiest smile. Scenic Bluffs Dental can help you get there in the most pleasant and comfortable way possible. Call (715) 953-0499 to schedule your appointment. We’ll see you soon!

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