What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, either while awake or during sleep. Many people don’t even realize they have it until noticeable damage or pain occurs. Signs of bruxism may include worn-down enamel, jaw soreness, chronic headaches, or fractured teeth.

Protect Your Smile with a Custom Night Guard

At Dental Station at Carrington, we provide effective solutions for bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding or jaw clenching. If left untreated, bruxism can lead to premature tooth wear, jaw pain, cracked teeth, and even tooth loss. Our custom-fit night guards help protect your teeth while reducing discomfort and strain on the jaw.

Common Causes of Bruxism

The exact cause of bruxism isn’t always clear, but contributing factors include:

  • Stress, tension, and anxiety
  • Sleep disorders like sleep apnea or snoring
  • An abnormal bite or crooked/missing teeth
  • Side effects of certain medications (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics, amphetamines)
  • Neurological conditions such as Huntington’s or Parkinson’s disease

Potential Consequences of Untreated Bruxism

Without treatment, teeth grinding can cause:

  • Jaw pain or stiffness
  • Gum sensitivity and recession
  • Loose, chipped, or cracked teeth
  • Headaches, particularly in the morning
  • Clicking or popping in the jaw joint (TMJ)
  • Facial muscle fatigue
  • Increased risk of arthritis in the jaw (TMJ disorder)

How We Treat Bruxism at Dental Station

There is no single cure for bruxism, but symptoms can be managed effectively. The most common and reliable treatment is a custom-fitted night guard. Made using impressions of your teeth, these guards are designed to prevent direct tooth-on-tooth contact and minimize enamel wear and cracking.

A properly fitted night guard will alleviate jaw tension by restoring proper alignment, and protect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) from further damage.

Unlike over-the-counter options, our professionally made night guards offer a snug, comfortable fit and are durable enough for long-term use. While they don’t stop the grinding reflex itself, they help shield your teeth from further damage and support better jaw health.

If you wake up with jaw pain, experience frequent headaches, or notice unusual wear on your teeth, a custom night guard might be the right solution. Contact Dental Station to schedule a consultation. We’re here to protect your smile and help you sleep comfortably again.

Teeth BG Shape | Calgary Family Dentist | Dental Station | Calgary, AB

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Call us at (403) 283-6749 to book your Bruxism Grinding Appliances appointment and discover why Dental Station at Carrington is North Calgary’s choice for comprehensive, compassionate, and convenient dental care.

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