Bruxism, typically known as teeth grinding, can occur during sleep or while awake. Although it’s expected to clench your teeth occasionally, chronic bruxism can be the reason for serious dental and jaw complications. If left untreated, bruxism can result in tooth fractures, tooth loss, and even damage to the jaw muscles, leading to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Why Do I Grind My Teeth?
There is no single cause of bruxism, but factors such as stress, depression, anxiety, and an abnormal bite are often associated with the condition. Teeth grinding in sleep is common, and many patients are unaware they have it until symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth arise. Sleep disorders, alcohol consumption, and certain medications can also exacerbate grinding.
What Are the Consequences of Teeth Grinding?
Chronic bruxism can cause long-term damage to both the teeth and jaw. Continuous grinding can wear down the teeth, requiring therapeutic dental treatments, such as crowns, bridges, or implants. Grinding also places undue stress on the jaw muscles, leading to TMJ disorder, which may cause headaches, earaches, and facial discomfort. At Worcester Periodontics, our team specializes in TMJ disorder treatment to help alleviate the pain and prevent further damage.
Treatment Options for Bruxism
If you’re dealing with teeth grinding in your sleep, the first step is to protect your teeth with a teeth-clenching guard. This custom-fitted appliance reduces the impact of grinding and clenching on the teeth and jaw. Beyond protecting your teeth, identifying and addressing the underlying causes of bruxism, such as stress or anxiety, is essential. Your doctor may recommend relaxation techniques, exercise, or muscle relaxants to reduce the severity of bruxism.
Other ways to help reduce teeth grinding include:
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Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake.
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Avoiding constant chewing on gum or other objects.
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Practicing relaxation techniques for the jaw before bed, such as applying a warm cloth.
Contact Worcester Periodontics for Bruxism Treatment
If you suspect you have bruxism, don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen. Book a consultation for bruxism treatment in Worcester, MA, to protect your teeth and improve oral health. Worcester Periodontics is located at 48 Elm St #3, Worcester, MA at 01609. Reach out today to learn more about managing bruxism and TMJ pain.
