A dental night splint is used to treat bruxism or TMJ Disorder. Bruxism is a problem people have with grinding their teeth. Night tooth grinding is particularly bad because the patient has no idea that they are doing it. The damage caused by bruxism can be extensive, especially for those people who have had the problem for a long time. Symptoms include tooth sensitivity and flattened teeth. The person you are sleeping with will be able to hear horrible gnashing sounds at night as you grind your teeth.

     A night splint can prevent this nighttime grinding. A night mouth guard must be custom made for an individual person. The forces applied when grinding teeth are so great that it can easily be thrown out of the mouth if not created properly. The appliance must be worn for 24 hours for a week before you can begin wearing it only at night. Unfortunately, the guard is not a cure it is only a way or preventing the tooth grinding.

    Night grinding is often caused by TMJ Dysfunction and a night splint made for TMJD can help fix this problem. A TMJ appliance can make a significant difference in your overall health, not just your oral health. TMJ Disorder can cause severe headaches, jaw clicking, jaw popping, jaw pain and tinnitus. The grinding caused by the TMJD can cause a severe tooth abfraction. The appliance can help but it is just part of a program designed to improve your health.

       If you would like to learn more about a night splint and would like to speak with an Atlanta dentist please consider the Atlanta Dental Group PC. Our Atlanta dental team has over 45 years combined experience serving Atlanta's dental needs. Our dentists are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If you would like to schedule a free dental consultation with one of our Atlanta dentists or with Georgia Dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, call 404-874-7428 to make an appointment.