The ongoing issues you have with nightly teeth grinding can have more significant consequences than you might anticipate. The longer this problem is allowed to go on, the more likely it is to create significant issues for your oral health. Fortunately, there are ways to effectively protect you against this issue. At our Houston, TX dentist’s office, we can offer support for bruxism as well as any related troubles you have with TMJ disorder. When addressed in time, patients can avoid some of the more significant effects of this condition. However, when that support is not received in time, additional problems can occur that will require care.
1. Your Teeth Grinding Habit Can Hurt Your Smile
The quality of your smile can change over the years for many reasons. While some gradual wear and tear can occur through the years, the problem can occur sooner, and it can be more difficult to ignore, when you struggle with nightly teeth grinding and clenching. People who have difficulties with bruxism and do not address them in time can wind up with visible wear and tear that gives their smile an awkward, uneven look or even experience chips and cracks that make them self-conscious. Sometimes, cosmetic dentistry can be enough to address these damages, but there are times when restorative dental work is needed.
2. TMJ Troubles Can Be Traced To Bruxism
TMJ disorder and bruxism are often linked. If you have problems with poor jaw alignment, one issue you can face is the onset of a tendency to grind and clench your teeth. However, you can also begin to experience problems with stress and misalignment when you repeatedly grind your teeth at night and go without the appropriate care! The sooner you let your dentist know that you have signs of either condition, the sooner you can start to enjoy treatment.
3. Bruxism Can Negatively Impact Your Bite Function
Because bruxism can lead to both difficulty with jaw alignment and dental damage, it can certainly impact your ability to bite and chew certain foods with comfort. Remember that without a strong and confident bite, it becomes more difficult to maintain the kind of varied diet that keeps us healthy. This can lead to more oral health problems as well as a greater risk for general health concerns!
Talk To Your Houston, TX Dentist About Bruxism Treatment
Through the appropriate treatment, problems with bruxism can be dealt with so that you no longer have to worry about the potential impact of nightly wear and tear due to your jaw grinding and clenching. If you would like to find out more about how we can help you deal with this issue and its consequences, contact your Houston, TX, dentist, Dr. Vlachakis, by calling 281-974-4494.
