A custom night guard in Guelph is one of the best solutions for bruxism, but does it actually stop teeth grinding?
A night guard is a protective barrier, not a “cure” for bruxism. While these appliances are essential for saving your enamel, they don’t actually stop the act of clenching. To truly treat bruxism, we have to look far beyond the teeth at the complex neurological and lifestyle factors that trigger the habit.
Here’s what to know about dental mouthguards and bruxism.
How a Dental Guard Protects Against Bruxism
A night guard puts a protective layer between your teeth. Instead of your upper and lower teeth wearing each other down, the force is absorbed by the medical-grade acrylic.
- What it does: Prevents chips, fractures, and the flattening of your molars.
- What it doesn’t do: It does not turn off the signal from your brain that tells your jaw muscles to contract. You will likely still clench, but you will be clenching onto a cushion rather than your natural tooth structure.
The Difficulty of True Bruxism Treatment
“Treating” bruxism means stopping the muscle activity entirely. Because bruxism is often a neuromuscular or sleep-related disorder, it is incredibly difficult to eliminate.
True treatment often requires a multi-disciplinary approach. It might include Sleep Studies (to check for apnea), Stress Management therapy, or even Botox injections into the masseter muscles to physically limit their contraction strength.
Why Teeth Grinding Protection is Still Your First Priority
Until the root cause (airway issues, stress, or a “misfiring” nervous system) is resolved, your teeth are in immediate danger.
At Hartsland Dental, we offer custom guards to buy you time. They ensure that while you work on the underlying causes, your natural teeth and restorations are protected from catastrophic pressure.
Get Your Night Guard in Guelph!
Protect your smile while you find your balance. Visit Hartsland Dental to get a custom oral appliance to shield your smile from bruxism.
Schedule your appointment today.
