How Tooth Grinding Can Damage Your Smile

What is Tooth Grinding?

Tooth grinding (or bruxism in doctor-speak) is a common behavior among men and women of all ages. It is when a person involuntarily clenches their jaw or rubs their teeth together. Tooth grinding can occur during the day or night and can affect children and adults. Some people grind their teeth intermittently when they are going through periods of unusual stress. For other individuals, it becomes a habit over some time.

Regardless of the cause, tooth grinding can be painful and damaging to your smile. It can also have a long-term effect on physical and mental health.

The Dangers of Teeth Grinding

• It can bring about loose teeth
• It can cause physical pain in the teeth or face
  • Headaches
  • Jaw pain
  • Ear pain
  • Tooth pain
• It can chip teeth
• It can wear down the enamel
• It can cause problems with the alignment of the bite

Tips/Ways to Help Stop Grinding Your Teeth

• Wear a mouthguard to bed
• Botox (injections of Botox into the jaw muscles can prevent the muscles from contracting in some people)
• Biofeedback
• Physical therapy
• Stress relief exercises
• Avoid caffeine
• Avoid alcohol

Resources to Help Stop Grinding Your Teeth

• Consult with dentist Broutin  about a custom night guard or splint
• Talk to your primary care physician about possible underlying medical conditions
• Talk to a sleep medicine specialist
• Speak with a medical professional who is experienced in using Botox to treat medical conditions–these include dermatologists, cosmetic surgeons, TMD specialists, and some dentists

If you grind your teeth, we invite you to schedule a consultation with dentist Broutin. We can discuss creating a custom night guard to help protect your teeth. We can also refer you to other experts who can help you overcome the underlying reason for the.

Do You Already Have Tooth Damage from Bruxism?

If you have already damaged your teeth, let’s discuss options for correcting the dilemmas. These might include porcelain veneers, dental bonding, or full crowns to shield against further damage.