Bruxism is a disorder in which the patient grinds or clenches his or her teeth on a nightly basis. Over time, the pressure from this disorder could actually lead to damaged smiles and serious oral health complications. In today’s blog, your Greenville, TX, dentist will look at how we treat bruxism and repair any damage that develops.
The Impact of Teeth Grinding
When we grind our teeth, or clench them, this places enormous pressure on them. While enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, it’s not immune to damage. Over time, the enamel could crack or chip or even wear them down. The teeth could appear shorter, and the damage could expose the inner structure to harmful bacteria, enabling cavities and even dental infections to arise that threaten the stability and overall health of your smile. Factors behind bruxism could include missing teeth, uneven teeth, an imbalance in your bite, TMJ disorder, stress, and injury to the face or jaw. To avoid any complications of untreated teeth grinding, you need to seek treatment for your bruxism once you notice the common warning signs.
Warning Signs of Trouble
People with the disorder often report chronic headaches and migraines, as well as jaw and facial pain. The teeth could feel sensitive and ache as well. Since the strain from bruxism could lead to TMJ disorder, a popping or clicking sensation in the jaw could occur as well. If you attend routine six-month checkups, then we will likely see signs of wear and friction on the teeth, often before you begin to notice these painful symptoms. At which point, we can discuss a treatment option to help protect your smile from further injury and discomfort.
Treating Your Grinding and Clenching
For some, we can restore the balance of your bite by correcting misalignment with orthodontics, or by placing custom-made crowns and other restorations. However, we often address the issue with a comfortable and custom-made device that looks and fits like a mouthguard. The device is created based on detailed impressions and images we take of your smile. When complete, you will wear the device at night as you sleep. The device could reposition the jaw to help ease strain and address factors behind your grinding and clenching. The appliance also provides a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, a barrier that helps prevent further cracks or chips. If you have any questions about treating grinding and clenching, then please contact our team today.
Your Greenville, TX Dentist Offers Teeth Grinding Solutions
At Smith Family Dentistry, our team is ready to help you enjoy better oral health and comfortable smile with our oral appliance treatments. To learn more about our approach to stopping issues with grinding and TMD-related symptoms, then contact your Greenville, TX, dentist, Dr. Smith, by calling 903-455-5750.