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Have you ever woken up with a dull headache, toothache, or earache not knowing what’s causing it? Do your facial muscles and the joints of your jaw feel sore and tender to the touch in the morning? It’s quite possible that you may be suffering from a condition known as Bruxism.

What’s Bruxism? It’s a condition that affects about 5-20% of the American population. Not restricted to children alone, Bruxism affects adults in the age group of 25 to 44 years. People suffering from this condition tend to clench their jaw and grind their teeth, leading to sensitivity to temperature changes and rapid wear and tear. In extreme cases, excessive pressure on the teeth can cause loosening, cracks and breakage as well.

Bruxism can be broadly classified into two categories – awake and sleep bruxism. People suffering from the former will resort to involuntary bracing of the jaw and clenching of their teeth in response to stimuli like stress or pressure or extreme emotion. Sleep bruxism, on the other hand, is characterized by grinding of the teeth and rhythmic contractions of the jaw muscles.

What is interesting is that patients may never realize they are suffering from sleep bruxism, since it only affects them at night, while they are asleep. The condition often goes undetected until a partner or spouse is affected by the clenching and grinding of the teeth (which can be quite audible, not to mention irritating) at night or a dentist spots signs of unusual wear and tear on the teeth.

Those suffering from sleep bruxism are often prescribed night mouth guards by the dentist. They are considered to be quite effective in controlling this condition. Apart from ensuring that your teeth don’t have to suffer the drastic consequences of persistent clenching and grinding, night guards also allow you to enjoy peaceful sleep, so you don’t wake up tired and un-rested. Moreover, you won’t have to worry about chipped teeth spoiling the beauty and appeal of your lovely smile, boosting your confidence manifold.

When it comes to night mouth guards, you can choose from two different kinds – one that can be bought over the counter from any pharmacy or sports shop and the other that is custom-fitted by a dentist. As can be expected, the latter is a more expensive option, since a dentist will mould it specifically according to the shape of your teeth. However, if you don’t mind shelling out a little extra, go for it, since they are a lot more effective than the ones you find over the counter. Custom made mouth guards fit well over your teeth and don’t threaten to fall off, even when you toss around on the bed in deep sleep!

Night bruxism should never be taken lightly. Varying from the mild to the intense, this condition can have a lasting impact on your life. Sometimes, behavioral correction therapy and even surgery might be needed by the patient. However, night mouth guards are good for immediate relief and patients respond well to them. Change can be seen within days of using them. So, do consult your doctor and be sure to note what he recommends for you.