Teeth grinding, often referred to as bruxism, occurs when the top arch of teeth grates against the bottom arch, creating an abnormal pressure on the teeth, gums, and jaw. This behavior can occur subconsciously, so an individual may not be aware this is occurring.
Even if the behavior is not noticed, it can still be detrimental to your oral health. Dr. Abraham Stein, a dentist in Skokie, IL, outlines the importance of treating teeth grinding promptly.
Am I Grinding My Teeth?
Teeth grinding often occurs subconsciously, without a patient’s awareness, and can happen while the individual is asleep. Though a patient may not notice the behavior, there are several symptoms they may notice that could point to bruxism.
- Sore jaw
- Earaches
- Popping or clicking in the jaw
- Pain or discomfort when moving the jaw
- Tooth sensitivity
- Headaches
If these symptoms seem familiar, you should talk to your dentist about treatment options for teeth grinding. This discomfort is abnormal and should be addressed promptly.
How Can Teeth Grinding Affect My Oral Health?
As this abnormal pressure continues on your teeth, significant damage can occur to your oral health. The pressure can add stress to your jaw, leading to temporomandibular joint disorders, or TMJ. This condition results in chronic jaw pain and other uncomfortable symptoms.
Bruxism can also damage your teeth. Teeth endure wear and tear daily, but severe amounts of pressure can cause cracks, chips, or breaks in your teeth that require restorative dental treatment to fix.
What Treatment Can Help My Teeth Grinding?
A possible cause for teeth grinding is jaw or teeth misalignment. Crooked teeth can be fixed with orthodontics, such as braces or Invisalign. Your dental professional can evaluate your teeth placement with X-ray imaging and consult with you about treatment.
Your dentist may recommend wearing a mouthguard overnight to protect your teeth from grinding or clenching that might occur as you sleep. The barrier from the oral appliance can alleviate stress from your jaw and leave you with less excruciating symptoms.
Manage Teeth Grinding and More in Skokie, IL
The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry treats teeth grinding and other dental concerns for patients in Skokie, IL. Dr. Stein specializes in restorative, cosmetic, implant, and general dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 847.920.4747.