Some estimates show up to 12 million people experiencing bruxism, a disorder that involves persistent teeth grinding or jaw clenching. Without treatment, the health and stability of your smile can suffer. How do you stop teeth grinding? We have a comfortable and minimally invasive option for addressing cases of bruxism.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Grinding
Question: How do I know if I grind my teeth?
Answer: In most cases, bruxism episodes occurs at night during sleep. Your significant other may be the one to tell you that you need treatment. However, there are also potential warning signs that can pop up during the day. You may notice a persistent headache, pain in your jaw, or sensitive/aching teeth. Don’t ignore these possible warning signs, see your dentist for a diagnosis.
Question: What causes bruxism?
Answer: Multiple factors can lead to the onset of bruxism, including stress, caffeine consumption, TMJ disorder, tooth loss, and misalignment. We will need to assess the cause before we recommend treatment. In many cases, reducing stress, cutting back on caffeine, and placing a warm compress against the side of the face can help ease discomfort.
Question: How does this disorder impact my smile?
Answer: Without treatment, the constant pressure from grinding can actually chip or fractured teeth. Bruxism can also wear down tooth enamel. Soon, you can experience a greater risk of tooth decay and dental infection, threatening the stability of your smile.
Question: How do I stop grinding my teeth?
Answer: We can often recommend an oral appliance, which places a barrier between the upper and lower teeth to prevent further damage. The appliance can also reposition the jaw to ease strain on the joints. Other treatment options may include a restoration or possibly orthodontic treatment to correct misalignment.
