If you have found your way to this article, there is a high chance that either you are suffering from teeth grinding or your roommate/partner has been complaining about your snoring. Are you wondering whether something can be done about all this? Well, the answer is a positive yes. I, Dr. Viorel Talpa and my team are here to assist you to better oral and overall health with customised and curated treatment for bruxism and snoring. However, before we move on to the treatment part, I believe it is essential to make ourselves a little aware of the basics of bruxism and snoring and why such conditions may affect you.
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is a scientific terminology that dental and medical professionals use to describe habitual teeth grinding and jaw clenching. Bruxism takes shape when an individual unknowingly grinds their upper and lower teeth or clenches the jaw.
Bruxism can further be classified as awake bruxism and sleep bruxism. Scientific studies have shown that sleep bruxism is more common than awake bruxism. Teeth grinding and jaw clenching can be found in any age group; however, it is seen to most commonly affect children, adolescents and older adults (senior citizens).
What causes bruxism?
The leading cause of bruxism is stress — mental, emotional or even physical.
Stress can give rise to:
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Chronic bruxism (long-standing grinding)
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Acute bruxism (short-term grinding due to a specific stressor)
Other causes include:
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Bad bite, poor oral hygiene, crooked teeth
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Faulty dental fillings or prosthesis
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Sleep apnea
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Neurological conditions (Parkinson’s disease, ADHD)
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Medications (SSRIs, antidepressants)
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Smoking, excessive caffeine, recreational drugs
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COVID-19 related stress
Signs and symptoms of Bruxism
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Jaw pain radiating to neck, upper back, or forehead
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Inability to open the mouth in the morning
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Morning headaches
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Troubled sleep
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Worn-out, flattened teeth edges
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Teeth appearing shorter
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Chipped or cracked teeth
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Grinding sounds noticed by others
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Teeth sensitivity
If you suffer from any of these symptoms, it may suggest bruxism. A complete oral check-up is recommended.
What is snoring?
Snoring can be simply described as the sound of resistance in the upper airway.
It is not produced by the nose — instead, it arises as air passes through a partially blocked upper airway, causing the tissues to vibrate.
What causes snoring?
Nearly 50% of the world’s population snores.
Snoring may be caused by:
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Anatomical structure of the mouth or sinus
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Lifestyle (smoking, alcohol)
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Allergies, colds
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Obesity
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Relaxation of throat muscles during sleep
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Narrow airway, enlarged soft palate
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Sleep position (worst when lying on back)
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Sleep Apnea — a severe disorder causing breathing pauses during sleep
How do mouthguards help with teeth grinding?
Mouthguards are made of medical-grade plastic and create a protective barrier between upper and lower teeth.
They help:
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Prevent teeth grinding
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Reduce jaw pain
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Prevent headaches
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Protect teeth from damage
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Improve sleep quality
Mouthguards for anti-snoring devices
Anti-snoring mouthguards help eliminate snoring and sleep apnea.
Two common devices in Luxembourg include:
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Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)
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Tongue Stabilising Devices (TSDs)
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)
MADs reposition the lower jaw forward, widening the airway and reducing turbulence, which decreases snoring.
They may cause slight tooth movement and are not ideal for people with gum disease — but they are highly effective for most patients.
Tongue Stabilising Devices (TSDs)
TSDs keep the tongue in a forward position, preventing airway blockage and significantly reducing snoring.
They are also suitable for individuals with dental diseases.
Why customised mouthguards are better
Always choose professionally customised mouthguards, not stock versions.
Custom mouthguards offer:
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Better fit
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Greater comfort
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Precise adaptation to teeth and jaw
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Superior effectiveness for bruxism and snoring
Final Thoughts
I hope this blog was of help to you. I, Dr. Viorel Talpa and my team will be there to assist you and your loved ones with excellent oral health. Until then, keep smiling and keep healthy! If you have any more questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
