Bruxism Could Damage Your Smile!
Bruxism is a disorder that occurs when you grind and clench your teeth on a nightly basis. Frequent teeth grinding could mean damaged teeth and major oral health complications. Fortunately, your Cleveland, TX, dentist knows how to diagnose and treat issues like bruxism with a custom oral appliance.
The Causes of Bruxism
Bruxism often develops when issues arise that upset the balance of your bite, such as tooth loss, malocclusion, injury to the face or jaw, misalignment, or even untreated TMJ disorder. For others, this could be related to increased levels of stress or anxiety. When bruxism develops, we grind and clench our teeth frequently, which could wear down outer structure and even chip or crack them. Along with negative changes to your smile’s appearance, this could mean an increased risk of tooth decay and dental infection, compromising your smile’s stability.
Warning Signs
How do you know if you currently suffer from an issue such as bruxism? Well, you may notice headaches or migraines that occur frequently, as well as jaw and facial pain. Aches in the neck and shoulders could develop, along with pain in your teeth and regular sensitivity or toothaches. If you experience pain in and around your smile, then please let us know right away so we can offer treatment, preventing the infections and decay that could potentially cause tooth loss and other complications.
Possible Treatment Options
For some, treatment could involve correcting your misalignment with orthodontics, or possibly correcting bite imbalance using a crown or dental bonding. However, the most common treatment option is an oral appliance. The device is crafted and custom-fitted for your smile using measurements and ages we take with digital technology. Worn at night, the appliance fits like a mouthguard and is used to improve balance and relieve stress on your bite. The appliance also places a barrier between the upper and lower sets of teeth, a barrier that could prevent further chips or cracks from occurring, protecting tooth structure.
If you have any questions about treating an issue like grinding, then contact our edam today. A visit now means you could put your 2021 dental insurance benefits to work before they expire at midnight on December 31st, or use any remaining health savings account finds before they expire as well. Let’s work together to greet 2022 with your best possible smile!
Do You Have Questions About Stopping Teeth Grinding?
We would like to help you maintain good oral health and avoid damaged smiles. If you would like to learn more about the best options for treating an issue like teeth grinding, then schedule a consultation today by contacting Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, TX, at (281) 592-1234. You can also find our practice at 205 E. Houston St. Cleveland, TX 77327.