Why Teeth Grinding Is Bad For Your Health?
By :
John Han | January 20, 2021
Teeth Grinding or Bruxism is a situation, in which you grind, gnash or clench your teeth. You may unknowingly clench your teeth when you're awake or grind them while asleep. However, mild bruxism may not need treatment. When teeth grinding occurs more often, your teeth can be damaged and oral complications can spring up.
Who is at risk for Bruxism?
Anyone from toddlers to the elderly and everyone in between can grind their teeth.
Symptoms
- If your teeth are flattened, fractured, chipped, or loose
- Worn tooth enamel, which reveals deeper layers of your tooth
- Frequent toothache or sensitivity
- Gum recession
- Tired or tight jaw muscles, or a locked jaw that won't open or close fully
- Pain or soreness in your jaw, neck, or face
- Disorders occurring in the Temporomandibular Joints (TMJs). It may sound like clicking when you open and close your mouth
- Headache
- Harm from chewing on the inside of your cheek
- Sleep interruption
Why do people grind their teeth?
- Awake bruxism – this occurs due to emotions. For example- anxiety, stress, anger, frustration or tension. Or it may be a coping strategy or a tendency during deep concentration.
- Sleep bruxism - this occurs due to sleep-associated movement disorder. It can be snoring and pauses in breathing (sleep apnea).
Treating Teeth Grinding in Midlothian, VA
In several instances, treatment isn't necessary. And if the issue is serious, options involve—
- Some dental approaches -- If you or your kid has bruxism, your dentist may recommend methods to preserve or improve your teeth. You can also receive splints and mouth guards. They keep your teeth separated to avoid any damage because of clenching and grinding.
- Dental Corrections -- In serious instances — when tooth wear has caused sensitivity or you can’t chew properly! Here your dentist may require reshaping the chewing surfaces of your teeth. He may also provide you crowns to repair the damage.
- Medications-- To cease more tooth damage and relieve your pain or discomfort.
- If a poor airway is a factor then treatment will be rendered for the airway first. And at times the teeth grinding will stop.
- Dietary changes, postural modifications, emotional therapy, stress counseling, sleep hygiene are few other treatments.
Talk with your Dentist in Midlothian, VA to find out which option is best for you.
What Can I Do to Cease Grinding My Teeth?
- Avoid food items and drinks containing caffeine. For example colas, chocolate, and coffee.
- Avoid intake of alcohol. Grinding basically intensifies after alcohol consumption.
- Do not bite or chew on pencils or pens or other stuff except food. Avoid chewing gum. Since this allows your jaw muscles to become more habituated to clenching and grinding.
- When you notice that you clench/grind during the day, move the tip of your tongue between your teeth. This habit lets your jaw muscles relax.
- Relax your jaw muscles at night by putting a warm washcloth against your cheek in front of your earlobe.
Now, in case you're looking for a ‘Dentist near me’ in Midlothian, VA, then get in touch with us at J. Han Dental Design. Dr. John Han can provide you the best Teeth Grinding treatment!