Many people may not realize they are grinding their teeth because bruxism is a dental concern often occurs unconsciously. That is why it is key to visit the dentist and get treatment earlier rather than later. Symptoms like irritated nerves and facial pain may be short-term, but weakened tooth enamel occurs over time with increased tension. Teeth can wear down greatly over time.
Dr. Jessica Christy of Orchard Hill Dental provides oral appliance therapy to stop teeth from grinding and causing more damage. Visit your dentist in Hendersonville, NC for comprehensive teeth grinding treatment today.
Signs of Bruxism
If you have noticed any of these symptoms, call our office immediately. Depending on the severity of the condition, you may need multiple treatments to not only stop bruxism but to restore damaged teeth:
- Chronic headaches
- Jaw pain
- Teeth clenching
- Tooth sensitivity
- Facial pain
- Muscle tenderness
- Worn teeth
Clenching or grinding teeth increases pressure on teeth as well, and its pressure is 40 times stronger than the pressure exerted from normal chewing. During sleep, the pressure of teeth grinding is not alleviated, so those who have problems with night bruxism may have weakened gums and teeth while being unaware of the problem. If this problem is left untreated, bruxism can cause severe damage to teeth, jaw muscles, and joints.
Treating Teeth Grinding
Dr. Christy provides treatment with a custom night guard or a mouthguard that can be worn at night. If you find that you clench and grind your teeth more during the day, this night guard can also be worn in the daytime. Oral appliances act like mouth guards and prevent teeth from grinding together. They also take the pressure off of the jaw and allow teeth to properly align.
After receiving treatment with oral appliances, some patients may need restorative treatment due to worn or damaged teeth. If teeth have been worn down or damaged due to bruxism, you can receive dental crowns to protect teeth from further wear and tear. Dental crowns also preserve the tooth structure for a more balanced bite.
Bruxism FAQs
How do you calm down bruxism?
The best way to calm down symptoms of bruxism is to lessen stress in your life. Patients with bruxism should avoid caffeine, and should be sure to keep a routine sleep schedule.
What vitamin deficiency causes teeth grinding?
Being deficient in calcium and magnesium can cause teeth grinding. Patients can correct this deficiency by eating a well balanced diet that is rich in calcium and magnesium, and by taking vitamin supplements. Your general physician can prescribe other medications to help with your deficiency if it is severe.
Can bruxism be cured?
Dental treatments can reduce the effects of bruxism. A custom night guard for teeth grinding can be worn to protect teeth against damage, however bruxism cannot be entirely cured without lifestyle changes.
Can bruxism cause tooth infection?
Bruxism can lead to tooth infection if left untreated. It puts stress on your jaw and bones that can lead to infection and tooth loss.
What happens if bruxism is left untreated?
If bruxism is left untreated it can lead to tooth decay, fractured or chipped teeth, tooth and bone loss. Overtime, bruxism wears at the enamel of your teeth, thus increasing your risk for damage and decay.
Request a consultation today! Stop teeth grinding at the source. Call Orchard Hill Dental at (828) 247-7001 or schedule an appointment at our Hendersonville, NC dental office on our website.