Are There Any Night Guards That Actually Train You to Stop Clenching?

The quest for an effective solution to bruxism often leads dental professionals and sufferers to explore various forms of night guards and other devices. Recently, I came across a novel innovation on Kickstarter called BruxRelief, which not only serves to protect your teeth but also trains your brain to stop clenching entirely.

The BruxRelief and Biofeedback Technology

BruxRelief is a groundbreaking night guard that uses biofeedback technology to retrain your brain. The idea is simple yet innovative: by providing real-time feedback and training, the device aims to help you stop grinding and clenching your teeth, rather than just protecting them from the damage that clenching and grinding can cause. This approach addresses the root cause of the problem instead of simply treating the symptoms.

I have backed this product on Kickstarter, and I eagerly await its arrival to see how effective it is in practice. The concept of training your brain through biofeedback is fascinating and holds great promise for those suffering from teeth clenching and grinding.

The NTI Appliance: A Different Approach to Reducing Bruxism

Another innovative approach to dealing with bruxism is the NTI (No Teeth in Interference) appliance. The NTI appliance touches only the lower front teeth, sending a signal to the temporal muscles and effectively reducing clenching by around 70%. This device is highly effective in reducing the overall force of bruxism, as it directs all the force to the lower anterior incisors, which have a direct feedback loop to the brain and the muscles responsible for jaw movement.

The NTI appliance works by working with your body's natural reflexes, allowing for a reduction in muscle tension and consequently, a decrease in bruxism. This makes it a popular choice among dentists and patients alike who are looking to manage their symptoms more effectively.

Limitations and Considerations of the NTI Appliance

While the NTI appliance is highly effective in reducing the load and making clenching less severe, it is important to note that it does not completely stop the bruxism. The appliance can permanently alter the bite if not applied carefully, and there have been some reports of issues with the TMJ (temporomandibular joint) due to misalignment or improper wear. In the United States, there have been some legal cases related to this issue, which highlights the importance of proper fit and regular check-ups with a dental professional.

One of the key considerations with the NTI appliance is the risk of TMJ damage. It is crucial to have the device fitted by a trained professional and to be monitored closely to ensure that it is not causing additional harm to the jaw joint. Regular dental check-ups can help identify any issues early, allowing for adjustments or replacement of the device as needed.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The search for an effective solution to teeth clenching and grinding is ongoing, with various devices and technologies emerging to address the issue. The