Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is excessive grinding of the teeth and/or excessive clenching of the jaw and usually occurs when one is asleep. If you wake up with jaw pain, tension headaches, or facial pain, you may be suffering from bruxism. Some people aren’t even aware they are grinding or clenching their teeth at night, until a visit to us reveals significant tooth enamel loss or damage to restorations.
Tension, stress, and anxiety experienced during the daytime can carry over to an individual’s sleep, and lead the person to grind his or her teeth together or clench the teeth unknowingly. Regardless of the cause, however, frequent clenching and grinding wears down the chewing surfaces of the teeth, reduces tooth enamel, and can result in a cracked or chipped tooth, crown, or filling.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Fortunately, there is a non-invasive and effective solution for teeth grinding and the damage it can cause to the enamel by using a custom-fabricated nightguard. Nightguards are made by taking impressions of the upper and lower teeth. Fabrication at a dental laboratory takes approximately two weeks. At the return appointment, any necessary adjustments are made and the patient learns to insert and remove the nightguard. Although it’s important to wear the nightguard faithfully if you grind your teeth at night, you can also follow a few self-care tips to help to prevent your teeth grinding from worsening:
Many people have no idea that they are grinding their teeth at night, so it is important to know the signs and symptoms of bruxism and to seek regular dental care. If you suspect that bruxism is the cause for your headaches or jaw pain, please contact our office and schedule an appointment.
