How To Protect Your Teeth All Night Long

Bruxism: Why Teeth Grinding Is A Problem

Do you wake up with a sore jaw or headache? You might be grinding your teeth! Learn more about this common but damaging condition!  

Have you heard of bruxism? Otherwise known as the grinding of the teeth, this habit can seriously damage your oral health so it’s important to identify the problem as early as possible. The challenge with doing so is that 80% of bruxism cases occur at night when you may have absolutely no clue that you’re grinding your teeth. Therefore, it’s essential to keep up with your dental check-ups on a regular basis so that your dentist will be aware of the first signs of bruxism and can recommend treatment options. 

What Causes Bruxism?

Bruxism can happen during the day too, and when people grind their teeth throughout normal waking hours, it’s often mental health that is to blame. Anxiety, stress, frustration and anger are all associated with ‘awake bruxism’, and in some cases the grinding can happen as a side effect of deep concentration. A professional Essex dentist explains that stress during sleep can also result in an involuntary chewing action which causes you to rub your top and bottom teeth together. You might also be more susceptible to teeth grinding if you have a pronounced misalignment such as an overbite or underbite.

What Are The Symptoms Of Teeth Grinding? 

Often, people who grind their teeth have no idea they’re doing it. But there are some tell-tale signs to look out for, particularly when you first awaken. If you rise to a banging headache, sore jaw and neck problems, then these are all classic signs that you’ve been grinding your teeth during the night. You might also experience pain behind the eyes, or have difficulty opening your mouth. Tooth sensitivity and sinus difficulties are also associated with bruxism. 

How Does Bruxism Damage The Teeth? 

If bruxism carries on long-term without treatment, then it can cause significant problems for your dental health. Common issues include broken teeth, damaged crowns or fillings and the wearing down of your teeth’s enamel component. Your enamel is your first line of defence against tooth decay, so it’s important to keep this in good condition.  

What Can I Do If I’m A Tooth Grinder? 

Your first step will be to visit a reputable dental practitioner who will be able to advise you on the condition of your teeth as well as how advanced any existing case of bruxism appears to be. In many cases, your dentist will be able to recommend that you wear an anti-clenching device to protect your teeth and jaw during the night. If you believe that you’re a daytime bruxer, then being aware of this will allow you to relax your jaw when you’re concentrating. 

When damage to the teeth has already occurred, your dentist will be able to advise on any treatment options such as crowns that are required to protect the health of your teeth in the future. If the existing damage is making you feel self-conscious, then there are plenty of cosmetic treatments that can be offered as part of a smile makeover to transform your appearance! 

The best way to keep on top of tooth grinding or any other dental issue is to ensure that you have regular check-ups. So, if it’s been a while, then book in today and make 2020 the year you prioritise your dental health!