Nightguard Therapy
Grinding & Clenching (Sleep Bruxism)
8-10% of the adult population have a secret disease called Sleep Bruxism, repeated grinding and clenching of their teeth. Some people do it unconsciously even when awake. Stress usually has something to do with it. It can cause mobility and loss of teeth if not treated.
Bruxism in addition to gum disease is a serious health problem. This combination causes fast tooth loss due to the accelerated bone loss. During sleep, Bruxism can cause the teeth to contact as much as 40 minutes/hour with 250 pounds of force.
Dental Nightguards
Although the condition might be treated with medication, the most effective method is a dental Nightguard. An impression is made of the teeth, a bite registry, and sent to the lab. We use Gildewell Laboratories. The hard, polished, acrylic Nightguard is delivered, and Dr. Alford adjusts it to have as many teeth contacts as possible.
