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Many people may grind and clench their teeth from time to time. Occasional teeth grinding, or bruxism, does not usually cause harm, but when teeth grinding occurs on a regular basis the teeth can be damaged causing other oral health complications to arise. Although teeth grinding can be caused by stress and anxiety, it may often occur during sleep and is more likely caused by an abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth. If you grind your teeth, you may unconsciously clench your teeth together during the day or grind them at night. Your bruxism can be mild and may not require treatment. Unfortunately, it can be frequent and severe enough to lead to jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth and other dental problems. Since bruxism may occur while you are sleeping, you may be unaware of it until complications develop. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of bruxism and to seek regular dental care from your Rochester Hills dentist. What is Bruxism? Bruxism is often referred to as "gnashing," and is the act of involuntary teeth grinding, either while awake or asleep. Typically, bruxism results in tooth damage and jaw pain, which can be caused by psychological effects of everyday stress. In severe cases, bruxism causes severe damage to your teeth. If you have bruxism, you may be unconsciously clenching your teeth together during the day or grinding them at night, which is called sleep bruxism. Mild cases of bruxism may not require treatment, but it can be frequent and severe enough to lead to jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth and other problems. If you have sleep bruxism, you may be unaware of it until complications develop. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of bruxism to seek appropriate, regular dental health care from your dentist in Rochester. Signs and symptoms of bruxism may include:
• Teeth grinding or clenching.
• Teeth that are worn down, flattened, fractured or chipped.
• Increased tooth sensitivity.
• Worn tooth enamel, exposing deeper layers of your tooth.
• Jaw pain or tightness in your jaw muscles.
• Enlarged jaw muscles.
• Earaches.
• Headaches.
• Chronic facial pain.
• Chewed tissue on the inside of your cheek.
• Indentations on your tongue. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, if you bite your fingernails when you are stressed, chew on a pencil or clench your jaw, you could be at a greater risk for bruxism. If you are exhibiting any of these symptoms, it is important to visit your Rochester Hills dentist to discuss the problem. It is always important to bring attention to an oral issue to prevent further problems. Prevention Tips One way to begin prevention is to watch what you eat. Certain foods have been shown to increase instances of teeth grinding, so it is helpful to avoid drinks that contain caffeine like coffee or cola. Research has also shown that grinding behaviors may increase after the consumption of alcohol. Chewing gum on a regular basis can also contribute to bruxism because it conditions your jaw muscles to become more accustomed to clenching. You can help train yourself by simply placing your tongue between your teeth any time you notice a clench. This type of habituation can help you to train your muscles to relax and reduce clenching. Contact your Rochester Hills dentist if you have symptoms of bruxism, or if you are told that you grind your teeth when you sleep. The earlier bruxism is identified, the better it will be in treating the symptoms. Consult your Rochester dentist for more information on bruxism and how you can further prevent teeth grinding.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading Rochester family dentist, Dr. Phyllis Indianer. Dr. Indianer has been in dental health for 25 years and is a native of Southeastern Michigan. Infection control and the use of local dental laboratories are a top priority for this emergency dentist in Rochester.
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