Alternatives to a Night Guard
Night guards are a popular approach to addressing the side effects of bruxism, the clinical term for the habitual, involuntary grinding of the teeth, and issues that arise because of chronically clenching the jaws. While night guards protect the teeth and can reduce or eliminate the unwanted side effects that come with clenching and grinding, they don’t address the underlying cause of these behaviors. In some cases, patients may prefer alternative treatment options, either because of comfort, cost, or in pursuit of a long-term solution for these habits. For these patients, there are a variety of effective alternatives to a night guard.
Behavioral Changes
In many cases, bruxism and jaw clenching are more problematic in times of stress or anxiety, and certain lifestyle choices can also exacerbate these tendencies. In these cases, behavioral changes can address underlying causes, and habits can be changed. These changes might involve stress management approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and meditation, and gentle exercise. Improved sleep hygiene can also lessen destructive habits, and avoiding excessive screen time while establishing a consistent sleep schedule can make a big difference in the unconscious behaviors that may otherwise arise.
Dental Treatments
When bruxism is related to dental issues or issues with the alignment of the bite, dental or orthodontic treatments are often more effective than a night guard. These treatments might involve reshaping the biting surfaces of the teeth with an occlusal adjustment, or they might involve orthodontic devices like braces or Invisalign. Dentists also use occlusal splints to adjust the position of the jaw; these devices are similar to night guards but specifically aim at correcting misalignments that lead to bruxism.
Medical Treatments
In some more severe cases, medical treatment might be needed to stop bruxism. This could involve taking muscle relaxants at bedtime to reduce tension in the jaw, or it might involve anti-anxiety medication or antidepressants to address stress or mood disorders. It’s important to use any medications with medical supervision, and some medications may be recommended for only short-term use. Some patients also find relief with Botox injections, which relax the jaw muscles sufficiently to prevent clenching.
Alternative Treatments
Many patients find relief with physical therapy, which could involve jaw exercises that help improve muscle function and body alignment. Physical therapy can also address postural issues that place undue strain on the muscles in the face. Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve tension in the jaw and surrounding areas, and acupuncture has also demonstrated success in reducing stress and tension. Some patients also find relief with biofeedback treatments, which use small electrodes to monitor the jaw and condition the patient to stop the destructive behavior, while others prefer herbal supplements, aromatherapy, or warm compresses applied to the jaw at bedtime.
Conclusion
The best alternative to a night guard depends on the cause of the issue, and the specific causes of bruxism are elusive. The habits can arise because of stress, injury, habits, misalignment, muscle tension, and possibly for other reasons. In many cases, a combination of treatment approaches is the most effective solution, and this might require some trial and error. Working closely with your dentist or healthcare professional can help you devise your own best treatment plan, and together, you can ensure a future free from TMJ disorders, bruxism, and the damage these conditions can cause.