The literature is controversial regarding the cause of teeth grinding, or bruxism. Some experts think that stress is the cause of bruxism, others sight occlusion, or one’s bite, as the source of the problem. Some patients react to stress by grinding their teeth unconsciously during the day or, more commonly, while sleeping. The constant pressure and motion can harm teeth, as well as muscles and tissues in and around the jaw. Bruxism, can be remedied with a nightguard. Common symptoms of bruxism include a sore jaw, headaches, or earaches. Constant clenching and grinding of the teeth cannot only cause the aforementioned symptoms, but it may also contribute to TMD (temporomandibular disorder), which has a long list of side effects associated with pain in the head and neck.
Teeth rubbing together consistently will result in surface wear over time, which will cause dental problems. If we determine that you suffer from bruxism, Dr. Carrico will create a clear, smooth niteguard or splint, to prevent grinding and clenching. There are many poorly made niteguards. Dr. Carrico collaborates with Eclipse Dental Lab and Dr. Jeff Okeson, a world-renowned researcher in the area of TMD, to make you the highest quality niteguard.