The Impact of Teeth Grinding

When you wake up, do you frequently have a sore jaw or a headache? Have you ever found yourself clenching down on your teeth when you’re stressed? Teeth grinding is fairly common among out dental patients, and for some people, it is no more than a nuisance. However, for many, teeth grinding can create severe and long-lasting oral health consequences.

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, places excessive pressure on the surfaces of your teeth. As a result, the enamel on the areas experiencing the most strain becomes thinner, encouraging tooth decay. Cracked teeth are also a common symptom of bruxism: the constant strain results in hairline fractures. Clenched teeth can also create problems for the jaw, or TMJ, as the muscles around the jaw and mouth tighten under the strain.

If you grind or clench your teeth at night, we can help you find a treatment that suits your needs. Sometimes, bruxism can be treated simply with a reduction in stress and avoidance of particularly hard foods. In other cases, a mouth guard can protect your teeth. Contact us today to discuss your options for treating teeth grinding.