If you suffer from bruxism, or the persistent grinding of the teeth or clenching of the jaw, you may wonder, “Why do I grind my teeth?” Without treatment, bruxism can increase the risk of damaging your teeth or even leading to related oral health concerns, such as TMJ disorder. Fortunately, the issue can often be treated with a simple custom-made mouthguard.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Grinding
Question: What causes bruxism?
Answer: Bruxism may be the result of stress, malocclusion, tooth loss, or TMJ disorder. Assessing the exact cause of your teeth grinding episodes will be necessary to decide the best course of treatment.
Question: How do I know if I grind my teeth?
Answer: Often patients only grind their teeth during sleep and may be unaware they need treatment. However, there are a number of possible symptoms you may encounter during the day. For example, you may suffer from persistent headaches, a sore jaw, earaches, or notice your teeth appear worn down, chipped, or even fractured. If you encounter one or more symptoms we urge you to see a dental professional for a thorough diagnosis.
Question: What happens if the issue isn’t treated?
Answer: Without treatment the constant pressure can break, crack, or wear down the teeth, exposing the sensitive inner tissue to bacteria. As a result, patients now have a much higher risk of dental cavities and infection, which impact the health and stability of the smile.
Question: How do the custom-made mouthguards work?
Answer: Often, we can treat teeth grinding with a non-invasive and comfortable treatment option. A custom-made mouthguard places a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing further damage from grinding episodes. In addition, the device can help reposition the jaw, easing pressure on the jaw joints and potentially ending further episodes. You may also require a restoration or orthodontic treatment.
