You might not even realize you grind your teeth, especially if it happens at night. But bruxism can lead to a number of problems, so it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms.
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is a condition characterized by involuntary clenching or grinding of your teeth. There are two main types:
- Sleep bruxism: This is the most common type, and it happens while you're asleep. You might not even realize you're doing it!
- Awake bruxism: This type of bruxism happens during the day, often when you're stressed or concentrating.
Symptoms of Bruxism:
- Worn down, flattened, or chipped teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Headaches, especially in the temples
- Earaches
- Loose teeth
- Difficulty sleeping (due to the noise of grinding)
Causes of Bruxism:
The exact cause of bruxism is unknown, but there are several factors that can contribute to it, including:
- Misaligned bite: If your teeth don't fit together properly, you may be more likely to grind the teeth.
- Stress and anxiety: These are common triggers for bruxism, both during the day and at night.
- Certain medications: Some antidepressants and other medications can list bruxism as a side effect.
- Medical conditions: Conditions like sleep apnea or Parkinson's disease can increase your risk of bruxism.
- Lifestyle habits: Drinking caffeine or alcohol before bed can worsen bruxism.
Treatment for Bruxism:
There's no cure for bruxism, but there are ways to manage it and prevent further damage to your teeth. Here are some treatment options:
- Mouthguard: A custom-made mouthguard worn at night can protect your teeth from grinding.
- Aligning the teeth in the healthier position with clear braces like invisalign or SureSmiles
- Stress management: Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation, can help reduce bruxism.
- Muscle relaxation techniques: Techniques like massage or applying warm compresses to your jaw can help relax your muscles and reduce tension.
- Addressing the underlying cause: If an underlying medical condition is contributing to bruxism, treating that condition can help.
Here at Oasis Family Dental, we can help you diagnose and treat bruxism. We can create a custom-made mouthguard for you and discuss other treatment options to keep your smile healthy and comfortable.
Don't wait until bruxism starts causing problems! If you suspect you might be grinding your teeth, schedule an appointment with us. We'll be happy to help!
In addition to the information above, here are some additional tips to prevent bruxism:
- Relax before bed: Establish a relaxing bedtime routine to help you unwind before sleep.
- See a dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups allow us to identify signs of bruxism early on.
By following these tips and seeking professional help if needed, you can keep bruxism under control and protect your oral health.
We look forward to seeing you at Oasis Family Dental!
Author
Dr. Niyati Sheth
Dr. Niyati Sheth heads Oasis Family Dental, a modern dental practice serving patients from all over the Northern New Jersey Area. Conveniently located in Maywood, New Jersey, the practice caters to patients of all ages and backgrounds, offering a diverse range of oral health care procedures.
Alumni of New York University College of Dentistry, Dr. Sheth is a general practitioner and has received extensive training in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. She excels in prosthodontics, including crowns, bridges, dentures and more. Dr. Sheth also routinely performs minimally invasive root canals and is a licensed Invisalign® provider.
Her patients appreciate her dedication to individualized care, attention to detail, and patient education. Dr. Sheth has been serving the Northern New Jersey area for nearly a decade and has endeared herself to her patients, forming countless close personal relationships along the way. She's a member of ADA, NJDA and SPEAR education.
Office website: https://www.mydentaloasis.com
