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Do You Grind Your Teeth?

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In this article:

  • Do you have problems with Teeth Grinding in South Jersey
  • What is bruxism?
  • What are the symptoms of bruxism?
  • Your dentist may refer you to a sleep medicine physician
  • You may need to try a few different treatments to find out what works for you

 

The habit of grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw is called bruxism

  • Grinding is when you slide your teeth back and forth over each other. Clenching means you tightly hold your top and bottom teeth together. Bruxism is something that children and adults of any age may do.
  • Bruxism can happen when you are awake or while you are sleeping. You may wake yourself up with a loud grating or grinding sound. The sound may even be loud enough that other people can hear it. However, bruxism may also be silent.

 

 

What causes Bruxism?

Stress and trouble sleeping are some things that may play a role in bruxism, but what is causing you to grind your teeth may not be know for sure. Children who clench or grind their teeth while sleeping are more likely to have other sleep-related issues, like snoring.

Your dentist can see if you have bruxism by checking for unusual wear spots on your teeth and looking at any related symptoms. Regular dental checkups are important to find damage in the early stages. Your dentist can help you manage bruxism and the related symptoms. Also dentist can help you to repair your teeth if necessary and help prevent further damage.

 

 

People who suffer from bruxism may have one or more of these symptoms:

  • headache
  • sore jaw or temporomandibular disorders (TMD)
  • jaw clicking
  • frequent toothaches
  • sensitive teeth
  • facial pain
  • worn or cracked teeth or fillings
  • markings from pressing your teeth into your tongue
  • trouble sleeping

 

How is Bruxism treated?

Treatment depends on each person’s situation. Your dentist may recommend that you wear a night guard during sleep. Night guards are custom-made by your dentist from plastic or other materials. The night guard slips over your upper or lower teeth and prevents them from touching. It protects your teeth and helps keep them from wearing down.

 

Your dentist may also suggest one or more other treatments if you have problems with Teeth Grinding in South Jersey, such as these:

  • ways to lower stress
  • medication for pain or muscle spasms
  • exercises to relax jaw muscles
  • filling or other dental treatment to repair damaged teeth

You may need to try a few different treatments to find out what works for you. You can help manage bruxism by paying attention to the symptoms, having regular dental visits and talking with your dentist.

 

Bruxism that is left untreated can cause future problems such as:

  • tooth wear
  • jaw pain
  • headaches
  • fractured teeth

 

What should you do if you have problems with Teeth Grinding in South Jersey?

 

Rapha Dental provides family and cosmetic dentistry South Jersey. We are located in Cinnaminson, conveniently on the Route 130. Give us a call at 856-829-8668 or contact us to schedule your appointment!

 

 

Copyright @ American Dental Association