There are a few key harmful habits that can really age our smiles over time. One of these is chronic dental grinding, also known as bruxism. Keep reading to get more information from our Toluca Lake dentists about what bruxism is, why it develops, and what you can do about it!
The first thing to take note of is that many of us actually clench and grind our teeth unconsciously. So, stay vigilant about noticing the signs of dental grinding, especially upon waking, your jaws may be sore or stiff, and you may notice tooth pain where your top and bottom teeth come into contact.
Now, sometimes dental grinding is temporary, such as in times of increased stress. However, bruxism can also develop due to structural issues with your smile; if your top and bottom teeth do not fit together naturally and comfortably, you may grind your teeth back and forth in an effort to find a comfortable resting position.
When you meet with our dental team, we’ll be able to assess your teeth, and make personalized treatment recommendation. You may benefit from:
- A customized oral appliance that protects your teeth and guides your jaw into a more comfortable position
- New restorations if your crowns have worn down and warped
- Selective dental bonding to build up specific enamel
- Orthodontic treatment to perfect your dental alignment and bring your smile into balance
Leaving bruxism untreated can lead to some serious oral health problems down the road:
- Thin, weak dental enamel, which is more vulnerable to infection and damage
- Dental cracks and chips
- Shifting teeth along the gum line
- Temporomandibular joint damage, pain, or inflammation
To get started, you can always call our Toluca Lake dentists to schedule a consultation. You can also use the Contact Us on our website to submit a question, and we’ll be happy to get back to you.