WHAT’S THE BEST DENTAL GUARD FOR TEETH GRINDING?
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common issue affecting millions of people in the UK, often occurring unconsciously during sleep.
It can lead to significant dental problems such as worn-down teeth, jaw pain, headaches, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
The good news is that a dental guard can offer effective protection against the damaging effects of bruxism and help alleviate these symptoms, restoring comfort and preventing further damage.
What bruxism?
Bruxism is a condition in which a person unconsciously grinds or clenches their teeth.
Although it most commonly occurs during sleep, it can also happen while awake, particularly during stressful situations or when a person is concentrating.
People with bruxism often experience symptoms such as:
• Worn-down or chipped teeth
• Jaw pain and tenderness
• Headaches, particularly in the morning
• Pain or discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw to the skull
• Muscle soreness or tightness in the face and neck
What causes teeth grinding?
Several factors can contribute to the development of bruxism, including stress, anxiety, misaligned teeth, or an abnormal bite.
Over time, the constant grinding can lead to significant dental problems and increased risk of tooth decay, making early detection and intervention essential.
If left untreated, bruxism can cause serious oral health issues, affecting your teeth, gums, and jaw.
Fortunately, there are effective ways to manage the condition and protect your dental health, with dental guards being one of the most popular options.
What is a dental guard?
A dental guard, also known as a mouthguard or occlusal splint, is an appliance designed to prevent damage to the teeth and joints by creating a barrier between the upper and lower rows of teeth.
Dental guards come in different types, depending on the severity of bruxism and personal preferences.
Some common types include:
• Sleep Clench Inhibitor (SCi)
• Soft mouthguards (also called Bite-Raising Appliances)
• Michigan or Tanner splints (full arch designs)
• Nightguards (various designs)
What's the best dental guard for teeth grinding?
While most dental splints focus on protecting your teeth and jaw from damage, the Sleep Clench Inhibitor (SCi) works differently.
The SCi is designed to target the root causes of bruxism by reducing the forces exerted by the facial muscles. These high forces are often responsible for the discomfort and damage caused by teeth grinding.
By eliminating contact between the back teeth, the SCi helps alleviate common bruxism-related side effects, including jaw pain, headaches, and TMJ disorders
Why choose the SCi for teeth grinding?
1) FDA-approved for bruxism and migraines: The SCi is FDA-approved for treating both bruxism and medically diagnosed migraines, offering a reliable solution for individuals who suffer from these conditions.
2) Comfort and discretion: Many people find traditional dental guards bulky or uncomfortable. The SCi, however, is smaller and more discreet, designed for comfort and ease of use.
3) Durability and effectiveness: The SCi is designed to withstand the constant pressure exerted by grinding and clenching, making it a durable choice for long-term use.
Interested in the SCi?
Getting started with the SCi is simple.
Your dentist will take impressions or a 3D scan, which is sent to our lab to create your custom SCi. Once ready, you’ll then collect your SCi from your dentist. It’s as easy as that!
Ready to start your journey toward better sleep and relief from teeth grinding?
Simply use our Find a Provider search tool to find a dentist near you who offers the SCi.