Dsalita Athletic mouthguards are commonly used to protect teeth during sports activities. However, some people also use them to prevent teeth grinding, a condition known as bruxism. While athletic mouthguards may seem like a viable solution for teeth grinding, they are not effective for this purpose. In this article, we will explore the reasons why athletic mouthguards don’t work for teeth grinding.
The Anatomy of Athletic Mouthguards
Athletic mouthguards are designed to fit over the upper teeth and protect them from impact during sports activities. They are made of a flexible material that can absorb shock and distribute the force of impact evenly across the teeth. However, this design is not suitable for preventing teeth grinding.
When you grind your teeth, the force is not coming from an external impact, but from the muscles in your jaw. Athletic mouthguards are not designed to absorb or distribute this type of force, and therefore, they do not provide any relief for teeth grinding.
The Causes of Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, and misaligned teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth damage, jaw pain, and headaches. While athletic mouthguards may protect teeth from damage, they do not address the underlying causes of teeth grinding.
The Role of Custom-Fitted Mouthguards
Custom-fitted mouthguards, on the other hand, are designed to prevent teeth grinding. They are made from a mold of your teeth and are designed to fit snugly over your upper and lower teeth. This design helps to prevent the grinding and clenching of teeth by providing a cushion between the upper and lower teeth.
Custom-fitted mouthguards are also effective in treating sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing stops and starts during sleep. This condition is often caused by the relaxation of the muscles in the throat, which can lead to snoring and interrupted sleep. Custom-fitted mouthguards can help to keep the airway open and prevent the relaxation of these muscles, leading to better sleep quality.
The Importance of Seeking Professional Treatment
If you are experiencing teeth grinding, it is important to seek professional treatment. A dentist or orthodontist can evaluate your condition and recommend the best treatment option for you. This may include custom-fitted mouthguards, stress management techniques, or other therapies.
Ignoring teeth grinding can lead to serious dental and health problems. In addition to tooth damage and jaw pain, it can also lead to headaches, earaches, and even hearing loss. Seeking professional treatment can help to prevent these complications and improve your overall health and well-being.
The Bottom Line
Athletic mouthguards are not effective for preventing teeth grinding. While they may protect teeth from damage during sports activities, they do not address the underlying causes of teeth grinding or provide relief from its symptoms. Custom-fitted mouthguards, on the other hand, are designed specifically for this purpose and can provide effective relief for teeth grinding and related conditions. If you are experiencing teeth grinding, it is important to seek professional treatment to prevent further complications and improve your overall health.
