Nairobi is a high-energy city, but the pressure of the “hustle”—long commutes on Mombasa Road, corporate deadlines in Westlands, and the general cost of living—is showing up in our patients’ mouths. We are seeing a significant rise in Bruxism, or teeth grinding.
What is Bruxism? Many people clench their jaws or grind their teeth during sleep without realizing it. Because it happens subconsciously, the force exerted can be up to 10 times stronger than the force used for normal chewing.
Signs You Are Grinding Your Teeth:
- Morning Headaches: Waking up with a dull ache in your temples.
- Worn Down Teeth: If your teeth look “flat” or shorter than they used to be.
- Jaw Clicking: A “pop” or “click” when you open your mouth to eat Ugali or a sandwich.
- Increased Sensitivity: Cold water hurts because the enamel has been ground away.
The Twinkle Solution: We don’t just tell you to “stress less.” We provide a custom-made Night Guard. This is a slim, comfortable medical-grade appliance that you wear while you sleep. It acts as a shock absorber, protecting your teeth from grinding against each other. If left untreated, bruxism can lead to cracked teeth that eventually require expensive crowns. Protecting your smile is part of managing your professional well-being.
