Millions of Americans grind their teeth together in their sleep. Over time, teeth grinding (bruxism) can weaken the teeth and lead to complex dental problems. More specifically, teeth grinding can affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). When the TMJ is damaged, everyday tasks like speaking, chewing, and laughing can become difficult and even painful. If you are experiencing tooth grinding in Allen, Texas, you should come see Dr. Nylander for treatment. So, what are some symptoms, reasons, and treatments for teeth grinding?
While some patients grind and clench their teeth throughout the day (mainly due to stress or tension), many of our patients only experience teeth grinding during sleep when they are unaware that it is occurring. Some symptoms may develop as a result of teeth grinding that can be an indicator of bruxism. Most patients who suffer from bruxism will experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Sore or tight jaw muscles
- Dull headaches, especially in the morning
- Swelling, usually along the lower jaw
- Damaged teeth
- TMJ disorder, a condition of the jaw joint
Bruxism is frequently misdiagnosed or not diagnosed because it is only one of several potential causes of tooth wear. Only a trained professional can tell the difference between bruxing wear and wear caused by overly aggressive brushing, acidic soft drinks, and abrasive foods. Dr. Nylander offers thorough dental care, including orthodontic treatment and TMJ treatment, which can help align the teeth and jaw to prevent teeth grinding.
Dr. Nylander will also treat tooth damage that the grinding and clenching have caused appropriately. We might suggest a dental mouth guard, which can help prevent bruxism. This device can be custom-made to fit your teeth comfortably and securely and should be worn at night to prevent teeth from grinding while the patient sleeps. We also offer restorative treatment for damaged teeth, which includes inlays, onlays, and dental crowns. These treatments serve to repair, strengthen, and protect the teeth.
Persistent TMJ teeth grinding can affect the aesthetic and function of your natural teeth. Many patients do not realize they grind their teeth until they visit the dentist. It is essential to schedule regular dental checkups at least twice a year. Dr. Nylander can examine your smile and treat your teeth before a more complex dental problem develops. If you notice worn teeth, jaw pain, fractured teeth, and frequent headaches (especially in the morning), you may want to schedule a TMJ appointment at Allen Dentistry.
