WRITTEN IN COLLABORATION WITH DR. ANDREA GELINAS

Everyone wants their smile to last, but sometimes teeth can be a pain. We’re not talking tooth sensitivity from sweets; we’re talking jaw pain and soreness around the gums and roots of the teeth that is usually associated with grinding or clenching.

It’s no surprise that when we’re working hard, stressed out, and trying to hit all our personal and professional goals, our sleep can throw us off track. But also, so can our jaw muscles. Many people hold tension in their shoulders or guts, and many people hold stress in their jaw, which manifests while we’re asleep.

“There are small strategies we can incorporate to protect our teeth from wearing down, decrease sensitivity, reduce risk of fracture, and give the jaw a bit of a break,” says Dr. Andrea Gelinas.

Gelinas is a cosmetic dentist, entrepreneur, and queen of cool. (Go take a peek at her clinic and stacked ear party, and you’ll know what we’re talking about).

She breaks down the of health benefits of night guards and explains the solution for overworked masseter muscles. And no, it might not exclusively be a solution from your dentist. Where Gelinas comes in is truly assessing your condition holistically.

“When it comes to protecting your teeth, a one-size-fits-all approach just won't cut it. Looking at the whole body holistically can help determine the right solution for each patient. Sometimes, that means looking beyond traditional dentistry and custom night guards and possibly including chiropractic care or acupuncture into your jaw journey.” – Dr. Andrea Gelinas.

Gelinas believes in evaluating each patient's unique needs to determine the best path forward.

By considering the whole person, not just their dental issues, this can provide a more effective, long-lasting solution. Here’s why a holistic approach is a game-changer:

Targeting Root Causes: Addressing underlying issues like misalignment or stress can lead to more permanent relief from bruxism and TMJ disorders.

Reducing Dependence on Night Guards: While night guards are incredibly useful, they’re a temporary fix. Holistic treatments are another option and aim to reduce or even eliminate the need for a night guard over time.

Enhancing Overall Health: Treatments like chiropractic care and acupuncture can improve overall well-being, leading to better sleep, less pain, and a healthier body.

Protecting your teeth is crucial, but it doesn’t have to stop at a night guard. By addressing the root causes of your dental issues, you can achieve healthier, pain-free mornings—and a better quality of life.

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