Teeth Grinding Does More than Make Noise!

Bruxism is, simply put, teeth grinding.  It’s a condition where people habitually clench and grind their teeth without noticing.  In some cases it can occur while sleeping and is given the aptly named diagnosis of ‘sleep bruxism.’  Depending on how severe the bruxism is can determine the level of treatment required, but it is important to be aware of the symptoms to know if this condition affects you!

• It’s not pretty - Bruxism causes dental erosion that affects the look of teeth and flattens them.  And, because teeth are grinding and gnawing, it may also loosen past dental work.  
• No rest for the weary - Sleep Bruxism can cause pain in the head and neck because jaw muscles are not enjoying the rest and relaxation that should be associated with sleep.
• Ouch! - The grinding of your teeth wears them down and causes loss of the enamel.  With that protective layering gone teeth are now painfully subjected to the elements.
• The gums aren’t happy either - After enamel loss causes tooth sensitivity the gums raise the white flag.  A receding gum line often follows enamel loss.  
• Even the cheeks aren’t safe - While your teeth are grinding they may pinch the inside of your cheek and tear at it.  This small wound can lead to ulcers commonly known as canker sores.

If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms please see a dentist for a plan to combat the effects of this condition.  Your dentist may decide your case is light and requires no immediate action but will monitor the progress over your next checkups.  This level of severity is known as ‘mild bruxism.’

If they decide this is a cause for concern be prepared to answer a few questions.  The underlying cause of bruxism widely varies and in order to properly treat your case the dentist needs to know whether you smoke, regularly drink alcohol, or are taking any medication.  Each of those may be the cause of your plight, but the list of factors does not stop there.  Stress and anxiety could be a major component to nighttime clenching and grinding.

Once the cause has been identified, your dental professional can develop the best treatment option for you.  It may be as simple as cutting back on coffee or cigarettes, or the dentist teaching you how to bite properly without stressing your jaw.  In some cases a night splint may solve the problem by spacing the upper and lower teeth and allowing you the rest you deserve!

Do not attempt to self treat this problem if you think you may have it.  Dentists are trained to treat this condition and can bring you the relief you deserve. Call Dr. Samuel T. Bander for more information or to schedule an appointment to identify and treat Bruxism or any other dental concern.