Hi, I have bruxism and have elected to do conventional braces for another issue.  My dentist today says they have tried night guards with braces but have not had any luck.  She would like to do bite plates with the braces.  Do you have any opinions regarding this.Carla
Hi! Welcome to Chat Doctor. I read your query. Bruise can be due to steps, anxiety or local oral factors like abnormal bite, missing or maligned teeth etc. Since you are already getting orthodontic treatment with braces, bite plate will help in correction of deep bite if you have. Also, it prevents direct trauma to TMJ by distributing grinding force on teeth. In addition to this, avoid stress. Do calm exercise, meditation.  Chat Doctor. Relax your oral muscles by exercise. Put a warm cloth in front of your earlobe for 5 min. This also relaxes oral muscles. Avoid chewing gums and intentional clenching. Hope the answer helps. Thank you.