Teeth Grinding or Bruxism is a state, which makes you grind, gnash or clench your teeth. Unknowingly, you may clench your teeth while you're awake or grind them while asleep. Though, mild bruxism may not need treatment. When teeth grinding occurs more often, your teeth may damage and oral complications can arise.
Who is at risk for Bruxism?
Anyone from kids to the elderly and everyone in between can grind their teeth.
Symptoms of Bruxism
- If your teeth are fractured, flattened, chipped or loose
- Worn tooth enamel, that reveals deeper layers of your tooth
- Continuous toothache or sensitivity
- Gum recession
- Tired or stiff jaw muscles, or a locked jaw that won't open or close fully
- Pain or soreness in your jaw, neck or face
- Disorders occurring in the Temporomandibular Joints (TMJs). It may sound like clicking when you close and open your mouth
- Frequent headache
- Sleep interruption
Why do People Grind their Teeth?
- Awake bruxism – this happens due to emotions. For example- anxiety, stress, frustration or tension. Or it may be a coping strategy or a tendency during concentration.
- Sleep bruxism - this occurs due to sleep-related movement disorder. It may be snoring and pauses while you breathe.
Treating Teeth Grinding:
In several cases, treatment isn't necessary. And if the issue is severe, options involve—
- Some dental approaches -- If you or your child has bruxism, your dentist may recommend methods to preserve or enhance your teeth. You can also get splints and mouth guards. They keep your teeth separated to avoid any damage.
- Dental Corrections -- In severe instances — when tooth wear causes sensitivity or you cannot chew properly! Here your dentist requires reshaping the chewing surfaces of your teeth. He/she may also give you crowns to fix the damage.
- Medications-- To prevent more tooth damage and relieve your pain.
- If a poor airway is a factor then treatment is offered for the airway first. And at times the teeth grinding stops.
- Dietary changes, postural modifications, stress counseling, emotional therapy, sleep hygiene are few other treatments.
Talk with your Dentist to find out the best option for you.
What Can You Do to Cease Grinding Your Teeth?
- Avoid food items and drinks containing caffeine. For example: colas, coffee and chocolate.
- Avoid intake of alcohol.
- Do not bite or chew on pencils or pens.
- Avoid chewing gum.
- When you observe that you clench/grind during the day, move the tip of your tongue between your teeth.
- Relax your jaw muscles at night by putting a warm washcloth against your cheek.
Now, in case you're looking for a Dentist
in Tomball, TX
, then get in touch with us at
Northampton Dental. The Dentist in Tomball
can provide you the best Teeth Grinding treatment
!