Solutions to common dental problems
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Teeth grinding or clenching may occur when you are awake or asleep and you may not even notice it is occurring. It is often difficult to control or stop.
Teeth grinding can leave you with pain, wear away your tooth enamel, damage your teeth, and cause other signs and symptoms.
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There are many signs that point towards possible teeth grinding:
- headaches
- earaches
- jaw aches and pain
- damage to the inside of your mouth from chewing
- sore jaw joints
- sensitivity or toothache from hot or cold food and drinks
- loosened or broken teeth
- tooth loss
- chipped teeth and tooth erosion
- facial muscle pain
- reduced mouth opening
There are many reasons why we clench and grind our teeth:
- Stress and anxiety
- Age
- Medical disorders
- Medications
- Family history
Sometimes, missing or crooked teeth or jaw misalignment can also cause grinding.
Your teeth grinding may also be indicative of a sleep disorder that needs attention such as OSA.
If teeth grinding is left untreated it can cause more significant long term dental issues. The pressure on your teeth may weaken its enamel causing it to flake, chip and break away.
The connection of the lower jaw to the skull is strained which may result in headaches and other associated pain. This is also known as TMJ disorder.
There are a number of treatments available for teeth grinding. Depending on your individual circumstances, a nightguard may assist reduce the impact of grinding your teeth while you are asleep.
To find out more about teeth grinding or clenching and how we may help you, call our friendly staff at Woodville & Seaton Dental Clinic on (08) 8268 5422 or request an appointment online.
