Oral Appliances To Prevent Teeth Grinding

Oral Appliances To Prevent Teeth Grinding

If your child is dealing with TMJ, a condition affecting the temporomandibular joint, one of the effects may be teeth grinding, a habit not only annoying to those around them but damaging to their teeth.

The temporomandibular joint plays a crucial role in chewing and swallowing, and if your child feels like their jaw is locked, making clicking sounds, or is having trouble eating in addition to teeth grinding, they may require treatment.

Dentists Dr. Gary Olen and Dr. Mike Maurer in El Cajon, CA, offer TMJ treatments including oral appliances to help your child feel more comfortable and limit the harmful effects of teeth grinding.

How does an oral appliance work?

Mouth or bite guards are designed to fit over the upper and/or lower teeth to prevent grinding. Both over-the-counter and custom-made guards are available, but for patients with TMJ, it is advised to have your dentist at our El Cajon, CA, office fit you with a specially made oral appliance.

To create the mouthguard, your dentist will take an impression of your mouth so the finished piece fits comfortably. Depending on your needs, the oral appliance may need to be worn during the day, at night, or both.

When worn properly, a mouth guard will help stabilize and reposition the jaw so the muscles can relax. Most patients will experience relief from teeth grinding quickly with consistent wear.

What is it important to prevent teeth grinding?

Teeth grinding can wear down the enamel of the teeth, leaving them more susceptible to decay and cavities in addition to weakening the teeth. Your child may also experience more teeth sensitivity when brushing or consuming cold or hot food and drink.

Prevent teeth grinding from TMJ with the help of oral appliances from El Cajon, CA, office of Dr. Olen and Dr. Maurer. Call us at 619-440-5915 to make an appointment.