Nowadays, more and more people are affected by bruxism, which is grinding or clenching their teeth. Most people probably grind their teeth from time to time. But when teeth grinding occurs on a regular basis, the teeth can be damaged, and other oral complications can occur. Grinding can eventually damage dental restorations, loosen teeth, and cause cracks or fractures. As the tooth enamel is worn away, the underlying layer of dentin may be exposed. This can result in tooth sensitivity
Why does teeth grinding occur? Treatment options
Teeth grinding usually occurs during the night, and it can be caused by stress and anxiety. It can also occur when you are awake.
If stressful situations are the major causes of bruxism, it may be helpful for you to find ways to relax, such as listening to music, reading a book, taking a walk, or seeing a physical therapist.
Your bruxism may also be related to dental problems. In this case, your dentist will probably correct tooth alignment. He may suggest reshaping or reconstructing the biting surfaces with crowns, for example.
If this bad habit is a side effect of some antidepressant medicines, then your doctor may give you a different drug.
An article published in the Journal of the American Dental Association suggested that teeth grinding is also associated with alcohol and tobacco use. People who drink alcohol and smokers are approximately twice as likely to grind their teeth.
Who grinds their teeth?
Studies have shown that not only adults but also children grind their teeth. Approximately 15% to 33% of children grind their teeth. They will stop on their own by age 13, with no damage to their teeth. But if this habit does not disappear, a dentist must be consulted.
What are the symptoms?
- Grinders tend to have pain, soreness, or tiredness in their jaw.
- Sometimes, pain coming from the jaw can feel like an earache or a dull headache that starts in the temples.
- If you are grinding, your teeth may be flattened, chipped, or loose.
Solutions
The good thing is that the damage done by bruxism can be prevented. Your dentist will recommend that you wear a night guard. This won’t stop the grinding, but it will prevent more damage to your teeth.
Pay attention to the symptoms we mentioned above. If you have pain in your jaw, if you discover changes in your teeth, if you wake up in the morning with headaches, these may be signs that you are clenching your teeth. Decrease stress in your life, avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking in the evening, get a good night's sleep, and see a dentist regularly.
Call today to make an appointment. (610) 553-3389 is the number you can find Dr. Arhiri. He and his team will be more than glad to provide useful information regarding this topic, and with a consultation to see if you can name yourself a grinder.