Grinding your teeth at night can be the reason why you often wake up with stiffness and soreness, or even a feeling of sensitivity in your teeth. This can be a less than ideal way to start your day, but what you should know is that this problem, known as bruxism, can lead to worrying long-term effects. Our Houston, TX dentist’s office is prepared to protect your smile against nightly teeth grinding. We can provide you with a custom appliance to wear while sleeping – when in place, it can stop you from clenching or grinding. Treating bruxism can be important on its own, but it can be an important step in helping you deal with TMJ disorder and chronic headaches.
1. Grinding Your Teeth At Night Can Hurt Your Smile
The amount of pressure you place on your teeth whenever you grind or clench them may surprise you. The force from this unconscious habit is great enough to gradually hurt the condition of your teeth! A person who experiences bruxism can notice that their smile has been affected by increasing wear and tear. If the problem is addressed before serious damage occurs, you can discuss restoring the way you look through cosmetic dentistry.
2. Bruxism May Be Related To Problems With TMJ Disorder
Many people who deal with bruxism also struggle with TMJ disorder – either condition can lead to you experiencing the other. TMJ disorder is a term used to describe someone’s condition when they have problems with the condition or alignment of their jaw. This can be the reason you experience frequent headaches, and it can make biting, chewing, and even speaking painful or difficult.
3. Teeth Grinding Increases Your Risk For Serious Dental Damage
The pressure from grinding your teeth can be serious enough to become a problem for your oral health. If you wait too long to do something about bruxism, you may wind up with teeth that are badly chipped or cracked. At this point, restorative dentistry can be required. By placing dental crowns on teeth in poor condition, your dentist can help you bite and chew with more confidence. You can be happy to know that teeth that are visible when you smile and speak can be treated with lifelike restorations that allow you to maintain your appearance.
Talk To Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry About Your Struggles With Nightly Teeth Grinding
At Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry, patients who have difficulties with bruxism can count on important support! In addition to providing you with an appliance to protect your smile at night, we can talk to you about treating troubles related to your teeth grinding. If you have questions about bruxism and TMJ disorder, or if you would like to make an appointment, call our dental office in Houston, TX, today at (281) 974-4494.
