Symptoms and solutions for teeth grinding
Teeth grinding, or Bruxism, is the clenching, grinding, or biting of your teeth. It occurs during daytime and nighttime, resulting in cases where nighttime grinding and gnashing goes unknown. Commonly found in children, nighttime grinding and chewing on the teeth can cause sensitivity and wear on baby teeth; when adults grind their teeth, the damage is more serious.
The causes of teeth grinding are unclear, but daily stress, sleeping habits, and tooth alignment play a factor.
Grinding your teeth may produce the following symptoms:
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A constant, pounding headache
Tooth wear and tear, cracked or worn molars
Fractured or loosened teeth
Soreness or sensitivity of the teeth, gums, or jaws
It’s harder to control tooth grinding during sleep, so it may go unnoticed and symptoms may seem to have no cause. Generally, symptoms affect the muscles and other structures around the jaw, possibly causing “temporomandibular joint problems” (TMJ). Teeth grinding can also lead to worn down teeth, a misaligned bite, or any of a list of other jaw-related problems.
Most treatments for teeth grinding seek to reduce pain, prevent damage to the teeth, and reduce the time spent grinding or clenching teeth. Mouth guards or appliances, such as splints, are recommended for the prevention of damage to the teeth and jaw. Heavier tooth damage may require a crown or bridge to repair, or realignment of the teeth. Many devices and systems exist to dissuade nighttime chewing and biting, ‘training’ you not to grind your teeth at night.
If you have any of the symptoms of Bruxism (tooth grinding or clenching), call Dr. Jeffrey L. Cohen, DDS at 626-967-6453 and schedule an appointment.
There are many options available to resolve the issue, both for prevention and repair. Mouthguards can aid in preventing nighttime tooth grinding, while surgery for crowns or bridges may be needed for teeth that have been severely damaged.
While you’re waiting for your appointment, cut back on alcohol and caffeine, apply ice or warm water to relieve soreness, relax and avoid stress, and you can warm your face (with a warm washcloth or steam) to relax the jaw muscles before sleeping.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Cohen today by calling [626-967-6453].
Dr. Jeffrey L. Cohen, DDS
204 West College Street
Covina, CA 91723
