Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can be a serious issue that wreaks havoc on your teeth. It is especially concerning when you are unaware that it is occurring. What’s more is that it can be caused by a variety of issues, ranging from emotional distress to jaw misalignment to others. If it is not addressed soon enough, damage from clenching can wear down your enamel. Luckily, however, there are solutions to both stopping grinding and also fixing the harm that’s been done. In today’s blog, your Greenville, TX, dentist discusses the details of bruxism and describes the ways they can help.
What Exactly Is It?
This disorder typically while you are asleep. Those who suffer from it are often unaware that they are grinding their teeth, which makes it harder to identify before damage is already done. In some cases, particularly the more mild ones, teeth grinding is linked to environmental factors like stress or anxiety. When this is the case, dealing with negative emotions can alleviate bruxism. In more severe cases, on the other hand, you might need professional treatment. The signs that you might have either disorder include having diminished enamel, noticing your teeth are particularly sensitive, feeling soreness or tightness in your jaw, and the presence of chipped teeth. In more severe instances, the sound of grinding can be loud enough that you are waking up others in the room with you.
What Causes Bruxism?
It can have numerous causes, which makes identifying the specific root difficult. If your grinding occurs at night, it can be related to other sleep issues such as sleep apnea. If it also happens during the day, it is probably tied to jaw misalignment or emotional triggers. The disorder is often linked to stress, anxiety, and frustration.
What Are The Solutions?
To prevent grinding, your dentist can create a custom-made appliance that you wear at night in bed. It is a mouthguard, designed for your specific smile, that prevents your teeth from rubbing together. If damage has been done already, there are a variety of cosmetic and restorative procedures your dentist can provide that will make your smile look whole again. You do not want to wait until it is too late, so if you do suffer from bruxism, please do not hesitate to deal with it.
Contact Us To Learn More About Bruxism Treatment
If you suffer from teeth clenching, please do not hesitate to schedule an appointment to learn more about treatment options. You can contact your Greenville, TX, dentist, Dr. Smith, by calling 903-455-5750. You can also find us at Medical Arts Plaza 4818 Wellington Street, Suite 3 Greenville, TX 75402. We proudly serve patients from Hunt County, Greenville, Royce City, Sulphur Springs, and all surrounding communities.