Do you have Bruxism?
- Posted on: Jun 15 2017
Consider the following questions: Do you often wake up with headaches? Do you have pain in your jaw? Does your jaw feel stiff? If so, you may be suffering from a condition called bruxism. About 10% of the U.S. population has bruxism, a habit characterized by grinding the teeth and clenching the jaw, often causing headaches and tooth deterioration. It is important to be aware of the effects that bruxism can have on your dental health while moving forward with proper treatment.
- Symptoms of teeth grinding: Some symptoms of bruxism and teeth grinding may seem commonplace, but if left unchecked can result in larger dental issues. If you experience one or more of the following symptoms a visit to your dentist should be in order: sensitive teeth, earaches, worn down teeth or enamel, consistent pain in the ear or mouth areas, damage to the interior of the mouth.
- Meet with your dentist. If you exhibit habits of grinding, clenching, or gritting teeth, share your concerns with your dentist. A consultation will allow them to determine if you have bruxism and how to pursue a treatment plan immediately.
- The effects of teeth grinding: Teeth grinding often takes place during sleep. Habits of grinding and clenching are often the result of another medical issue like sleep apnea. Over time, consistent grinding, and clenching can result in fractured teeth, gum recession, enamel erosion, loose teeth, jaw and joint problems, headaches, and a sore jaw. For perspective, the average person has .3 millimeters of tooth erosion every decade while teeth grinders can experience .2 millimeters of erosion in just a few years.
- Bruxism treatment: A consultation with your dentist will provide you with a specific treatment plan to alleviate the symptoms and pain associated with bruxism.The plan may include doing exercises aimed at relaxing the jaw, getting a mouth guard to stop teeth grinding, drinking more water, finding ways to reduce stress, or avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
To determine if you suffer from bruxism, contact Dr. Paul Covell at 713-943-9832. Let us help you live pain-free today.
Posted in: Bruxism
