What is teeth grinding, and why does it happen?

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth. It often occurs during sleep and can be caused by stress, anxiety, an abnormal bite, missing or crooked teeth, or sleep disorders like sleep apnea.

What are the symptoms of teeth grinding?

Common symptoms include jaw pain or tightness, headaches, earaches, worn-down teeth, and disrupted sleep. Some people may also experience sensitivity in their teeth due to the pressure exerted while grinding.

How can teeth grinding affect my oral health?

Chronic teeth grinding can wear down enamel, lead to chipped or fractured teeth, increase the risk of cavities, and cause gum recession. In severe cases, it may also lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

How can I stop grinding my teeth?

Treatment options include wearing a custom night guard, practicing stress-reduction techniques, managing anxiety, and correcting any dental issues that may be contributing to bruxism. In some cases, adjusting your sleeping position or treating sleep disorders may also help.

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Grinding Your Teeth at Night? We Can Help

Manchester & Hamden, CT Teeth Grinding Dental Solutions

Most people probably grind and clench their teeth from time to time. Occasional teeth grinding, medically called bruxism, does not usually cause harm. However, when teeth grinding occurs on a regular basis the teeth can be damaged and other oral health complications can develop. At Signature Smiles, we aim to assist patients who experience teeth grinding and clenching often by providing them with education about the condition as well as custom-made night guards.

About Teeth Grinding

Some patients develop a habit of grinding their teeth, either during the day or night. In many cases, the abrasive action occurs only during sleep, and for only a few seconds at a time. If you wake up with a sore jaw or a morning headache, chances are you're grinding your teeth during the night. In some patients, enlarged jaw muscles develop on the sides of the face from this nighttime grinding. These muscles are the strongest in the body, which means they can do a lot of unnecessary damage. The compressive forces can also weaken the intricate jaw joints on one or both sides. Damage to the joints may lead to arthritic changes, chronic pain, and popping or clicking. Once these changes settle in, reversing their condition may become impossible.

Signature Smiles Can Help

If you're waking up with a sore jaw or headaches, or you've noticed chips or flattening of your teeth, a consultation is recommended. The sooner the problem receives attention, the less damage there will be. Often a carefully calibrated night guard will eliminate the symptoms while protecting your precious enamel. Dr. Sharma and Dr. Rangi will analyze your bite and make sure they're moving against each other properly when you chew. Regardless of the cause, eliminating the strain on the jaw and your teeth as quickly as possible can save you money and time spent in the dental chair.

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Common Questions About Teeth Grinding

What is teeth grinding, and why does it happen?

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth. It often occurs during sleep and can be caused by stress, anxiety, an abnormal bite, missing or crooked teeth, or sleep disorders like sleep apnea.
What are the symptoms of teeth grinding?

Common symptoms include jaw pain or tightness, headaches, earaches, worn-down teeth, and disrupted sleep. Some people may also experience sensitivity in their teeth due to the pressure exerted while grinding.
How can teeth grinding affect my oral health?

Chronic teeth grinding can wear down enamel, lead to chipped or fractured teeth, increase the risk of cavities, and cause gum recession. In severe cases, it may also lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
How can I stop grinding my teeth?

Treatment options include wearing a custom night guard, practicing stress-reduction techniques, managing anxiety, and correcting any dental issues that may be contributing to bruxism. In some cases, adjusting your sleeping position or treating sleep disorders may also help.

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