801-756-0900A chronic state of stress can have a significant impact on your medical health and psychological condition. It can also have a gradual negative effect on your overall oral health and function. Some people will start to grind their teeth when sleeping in response to chronic stress.
As time goes on the frequent pressure caused by clamping your jaw tightly and grinding your teeth back and forth can cause chips, dental fractures, and damage existing dental fillings on the biting surfaces of your teeth.
Over time the excess tension in your temporomandibular joints and surrounding connective tissue can cause the inflammation, and discomfort of TMJ disorder. This can also cause excess wear and tear on the cartilage structures of the joints. In time this increases your chances of suffering TMJ disorder and early onset of arthritis.
Wearing a dental guard in your mouth while you sleep can help cushion the biting surfaces of your teeth while also allowing a little slip. This can help prevent damage to your teeth and reduce the effect on your temporomandibular joints.
There are several brands available in stores. If you find these units uncomfortable, you might want to try scheduling a consultation at Dr. Carl McMillan’s orthodontic clinic. It might be possible for him to fit you for a custom dental guard.
This is a quality mouthpiece that will be custom made to match the unique shape of your teeth and mouth to fit comfortably in place while you sleep.
If you live in the American Fork, Utah, area and you are concerned about the effects of chronic, you should call 801-756-0900 to schedule a consultation appointment the orthodontic specialists at TMJ Therapy.