If you clench or grind your teeth in stressful situations or during sleep, you may have bruxism, another term used to describe teeth grinding. This dental concern is characterized by teeth clenching and grinding that puts pressure on the teeth. Over time, bruxism can damage the tooth structure and patients will need restorative treatments. Dr. Ratti Handa offers treatment for teeth grinding in Acton, MA. Dr. Handa and her team are dedicated to giving patients high-quality, advanced dental solutions.
Signs of Bruxism
Grinding the teeth is common during sleep, especially in children and teens. Grinding can be a sign that a person has not been getting enough sleep, stress, or their teeth are sore from dental work. It can also indicate problems such as temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). There are multiple common signs of bruxism to look out for:
- Worn teeth
- Jaw pain
- Teeth clenching
- Tooth sensitivity
- Chronic headaches
- Facial pain
- Muscle tenderness
- Lockjaw
- Fractured teeth
- Loose teeth
If any of these symptoms sound familiar to you, call 978.212.3783. Patients who have crooked teeth, a misaligned bite, or suffer from frequent stress or anxiety are more prone to this condition. There are also more serious consequences of untreated bruxism. Tooth enamel can become weaker over time with increased tension and can become damaged or worn down.
Clenching or grinding teeth increases pressure on teeth as well, and its pressure is 40 times stronger than the pressure exerted from normal chewing. The pressure that teeth grinding exerts is not alleviated during sleep, so those who have problems with night bruxism may have weakened gums and teeth while being unaware of the problem.
If left untreated, bruxism can cause severe damage to teeth, jaw muscles, and joints.
Treatment for Teeth Grinding in Acton, MA
Dr. Handa provides oral appliance therapy to patients with bruxism. Oral appliances take the pressure off of the jaw and help teeth become properly aligned. Most importantly, this mouth guard-like appliance stops teeth from clenching and grinding together. They protect teeth to prevent further wear and tear.
This treatment can be worn overnight or during anxiety-inducing situations. If teeth are worn down too much, or are damaged from bruxism, Dr. Handa can provide restorative treatment such as dental implants, crowns, or dentures.
Teeth Grinding FAQs
What damage can grinding teeth cause?
Over time, teeth grinding can cause severe damage to teeth and lead to other health issues. Teeth grinding removes enamel from teeth which cannot be replaced. It also may cause headaches and jaw pain.
What vitamin deficiency causes teeth grinding?
Having a vitamin deficiency may trigger patients to grind their teeth. Patients deficient in calcium, or magnesium may be more prone to grind their teeth.
Can teeth heal from grinding?
Teeth cannot recover from damage caused by teeth grinding. When patients grind their teeth it damages their enamel. Patients can protect their teeth against further damage with a mouthguard, but they cannot reverse prior damage. Tooth enamel does not grow back.
What is the best way to stop grinding your teeth?
The best way to stop grinding your teeth is to wear a night guard, relax before bed, and massage your jaw muscles. This will help prevent severe grinding at night. Patients may also start an exercise routine to help prevent grinding at night.
Does anxiety cause teeth grinding?
Grinding your teeth shows excess tension and may be a response to stress. Many people who suffer from anxiety and depression grind their teeth as a way of dealing with their feelings of stress.
Does high blood pressure cause teeth grinding?
Doctors estimate that between 10% and 30% of adults grind their teeth while they sleep. High blood pressure has links to bruxism.
Schedule A Dental Exam Today
Our professional team will work with you to stop your bruxism at the source. Call Dr. Handa today at 978.212.3783 or request a consultation on our website.