Many Americans grind their teeth while they sleep but are unaware of the potential hazards of doing so. In addition to being an annoyance to your sleeping companion grinding your teeth can have negative effects on your health. For starters, most people who grind their teeth suffer from jaw pain when they wake up in the morning. Chronic grinding can eventually lead to problems with the TMJ and can led to the next problem; headaches.
Chronic headaches have been correlated with people who grind their teeth. This is due in part to the force exerted by the facial muscles when the teeth grind during the night. Severe cases of grinding can result in jaw pains and headaches that can occur during the day. In addition to these two major issues, grinders may also experience gum recession, sleeping issues, and irritability in relationships with sleep companions.
Symptoms of Teeth Grinding
There are many signs of teeth grinding that are often caused by anxiousness or feelings of tenseness. Teeth grinding, or bruxism as doctors call it occurs subconsciously during sleep or during the day. The following are some of the signs that you may be a bruxer:
- Your clenching wakes up your sleep partner
- Your teeth are worn, flattened or chipped
- Your enamel is worn down. This can lead to discolored teeth and teeth that are susceptible to chipping or fracture.
- Sensitive teeth are a symptom of bruxing. These people feel extreme sensitivity to hot or cold foods or drink.
- Earaches, headaches and facial pain
Teeth Grinding Treatment
At Suisun City Dental we recommend nightguards for our patients who experience teeth grinding. These devices help protect the surface of your teeth and prevent the onset of headaches and jaw pains. Our nightguards are custom-made for the most comfortable and snug fit possible. They are also extremely durable and can withstand the forces of your jaw and teeth.
If you are concerned about the overall well-being of your dental health and you think you may suffer from teeth grinding contact our office today to schedule a consultation to see if you can benefit from a custom made nightguard.
