Question: My dentist said that he thinks I am grinding my teeth at night and that I would benefit from a nightguard. Do I really need this?
Answer: The fact is that there is a large percentage of the adult population and a significant percentage of the adolescent population who clench and grind their teeth. Studies
vary, but most likely, up to half of all adults and about 15% of children fall into this category. Interestingly, most are not aware of the habit, and many deny it. Dentists and hygienists can usually identify the problem by observing the wear of the teeth and by evaluating symptoms (when present). Clenching and grinding, particularly during sleep, can be a silent killer of teeth and the root systems which nourish them. The habit can severely wear teeth, crack or fracture teeth and kill or damage the nerves inside teeth, eventually causing nerve damage which can necessitate root canal
procedures or extractions. Headaches are another symptom of grinding. The pressure generated by clenching or grinding can amount to several hundred pounds per square inch on
the back teeth, which is enough to cause damage over time. Remember that when we eat food, the food somewhat cushions our bite. When we clench, the pressure is tooth against
hard tooth. The purpose of a bite guard or nightguard is to cushion the teeth against one another and prevent damage. Clenching and grinding is a behavior which is not easily altered,
so it is best to utilize a guard to prevent its harmful effects whenever possible.
Ask your dentist or hygienist about grinding or clenching and the options available to you.
For questions about this and other dental procedures, contact Dr. Guller at: askdrguller@aol.com or call 201-391-5565.
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