How bruxism can impact your oral health
- Posted on: Jan 15 2020
If you’re visiting Dr. Paul Covell of Pasadena, TX and he states that there is significant “wear and tear” or damage to the teeth, he may diagnose you with a condition called bruxism. Bruxism can attribute to a variety of problems visually seen in the smile. Teeth worn down or broken may indicate the clenching and grinding of the teeth are occurring. This is often seen in patients who constantly have broken or chipped restorations such as porcelain veneers or dental crowns. Bruxism often occurs when a patient sleeps, which can make it difficult to control.
What causes bruxism?
While bruxism is often just a habit that naturally develops in a patient, some factors may contribute to the increased nature of the condition. Patients undergoing periods of high stress and anxiety may find that they struggle with the concerns associated with bruxism more often than they have in the past. Poor alignment of the teeth may also contribute. In some situations, patients may deal with bruxism due to certain medications they are taking that often have clenching and grinding of the teeth as a side effect. Regardless, this condition must be addressed to protect the smile.
How does bruxism impact oral health?
Bruxism can cause a wide range of dental problems, including:
- Broken restorations
- Worn tooth enamel
- Inability to maintain restorations
- Sore jaw muscles/jaw pain
How can a patient treat bruxism?
Bruxism may be difficult to treat as there is no medication that can stop it. However, patients can be proactive about their condition and wear a special mouthguard from their dentist. This mouthguard should be worn while patients sleep to reduce the damage the condition causes on the smile. A comfortable mouthguard can also relieve tension in the jaw area that often exists due to the clenching that occurs.
Do you believe bruxism is impacting your oral health?
Pasadena, TX area patients who are faced with the possibility of experiencing bruxism or other conditions that can affect the smile are encouraged to book a consultation visit and initial evaluation with Dr. Paul Covell by calling (713) 943-9832. The practice is conveniently located at 4010 Vista Road and accepts new patients and families in the market for quality dental care. This office provides general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry for all.
Posted in: Bruxism
