What is bruxism?

Bruxism is the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, which often occurs unconsciously, especially during sleep. Bruxism can lead to various dental problems, including tooth decay, jaw joint pain and headaches. Bruxism mouthguards, also known as nightguards, are dental appliances designed to alleviate the effects of overactive joints, such as grinding and clenching of teeth.

The basic features of a nightguard:

• Tooth protection: from the effects of grinding and clenching, leading to enamel wear, tooth sensitivity and other dental problems
  
• Customized: made by a dentist for each patient, offering an excellent fit
• Shock-absorbing: absorbing the force created by grinding and clenching, helping to protect teeth and reduce strain on the muscles of the perioral area
• Preventing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: by using a properly adjusted bruxism mouthguard can help prevent or relieve TMJ-related symptoms, such as pain in the jaw joint 
• Nocturnal use: used primarily at night, preventing contact between the upper and lower jaw teeth
• Maintenance and cleaning: they should be cleaned regularly using a mild soap and water and may need occasional replacement if signs of wear are noticed.
• Dentist advice: a thorough examination can help determine the severity of the condition and, if necessary, a specially shaped bruxism splint may be recommended.

A bruxism mouthguard is an effective and non-invasive way to manage the symptoms of teeth grinding and clenching, providing protection for both the teeth and the jaw joints. Guidance from a dentist is vital in obtaining the most appropriate type of bruxism mouthguard based on individual needs and the severity of the bruxism.