You may or may not be grinding your teeth as you read this, but if you notice that you grind your teeth at other times during the day, then you may want to pay attention to it. While most people clench their teeth from time to time, those who do it consistently may be experiencing bruxism – the uncontrollable clenching and grinding of your teeth. If you notice that your teeth often grind together, then we advise seeking a consultation with your dentist to determine if you have bruxism.
Why Bruxism is a Problem
If you do it hard enough, the noise from grinding your teeth can be disruptive to those around you. However, that isn’t the reason why bruxism is a problem. The trouble with the condition is that the excessive force and pressure caused by bruxism can lead to a host of serious dental issues, including damage and excessive wear to your teeth. Bruxism can also lead to stress and fatigue in your jaw’s temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, which can result in severe discomfort known as TMJ disorder.
How to Stop Nighttime Bruxism
If everyone who had bruxism knew it immediately, then the condition would never have the chance to cause dental damage. Unfortunately, bruxism often goes unnoticed for quite some time, mainly because many patients experience grinding most often at night. If your dentist notices that your teeth are becoming worn, or that you exhibit other signs of bruxism, then you might be a candidate for conservative bruxism treatment. With the help of a custom-designed night-guard, your dentist can help you protect your teeth from grinding together while you sleep, reducing the damages to your oral health that bruxism that can cause.
