Chronic teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can pose serious dangers for your smile. But what causes people to grind their teeth regularly? In today’s blog, we’re looking at the causes and warning signs of bruxism. We’re also discussing treatment options for patients in Richfield, MN!
The Causes of Teeth Grinding
What causes a person to grind his or her teeth? Factors often include tooth loss, misalignment, TMJ disorder, or injury to the face or jaw. However, the most common cause seems to be high levels of stress in your daily life. Patients with bruxism often grind their teeth as they sleep, which means unless they have a significant other to let them know, or they see us for a routine exam, they may not know the need treatment. There are a few symptoms that show up in waking hours, such as pain in the jaw or face, toothaches, and persistent headaches. As dental professionals, we’ll look for signs of wear and friction on the teeth.
The Health Risks
The damage can wear down tooth enamel and expose sensitive inner layers of dentin. Patients can also experience chips or cracks in their teeth. Soon, cases of tooth decay and dental infection can develop. Patients can be at risk of losing teeth or suffering serious discomfort without treatment.
Preventive Measures and Treatment Options
In order to avoid bruxism, you can cut back on caffeine products or chewing on hard objects such as pens or pencils. You can also see your dentist as soon as you notice discomfort in or around your teeth and jaw. We can often treat the problem with a custom-made mouthguard. The device fits comfortably and is worn at night. The appliance places a barrier between the upper and lower teeth to prevent further damage, while also repositioning the jaw to ease strain on the joints.
Talk To Cedar West Family Dentistry About Bruxism
At Cedar West Family Dentistry, we can provide solutions to teeth grinding. Our practice can work with you to provide solutions to common oral health issues. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment with us, call our family dental office in Richfield, MN, today at (612) 861-7188.
