Four Things You Didn’t Know About Bruxism

Bruxism is a condition where someone clenches and grinds their teeth excessively. Although it usually happens at night, some people revert to bruxing during the day (especially if they’re stressed out.)

It Can Lead to TMD (TMJ Disorder)

When you clench and grind your teeth excessively, it overworks your jaw muscles. Gradually this can lead to muscle strain, painful headaches, and deterioration of your TMJ ligaments. You may start to notice limited range of motion, migraines when you wake up in the morning, or popping and clicking inside the joints on either side of your mouth.

It Will Break Your Dental Work

Restorative treatments like fillings, crowns, and bridges are crafted from durable materials. But they can’t withstand excessive use. If you’re putting heavy biting forces on them consistently, the porcelain or ceramics will start to chip away. Even worse, they may bring surrounding tooth structure with it.

It Can Wear Out Your Teeth

Yes, tooth enamel is strong. But when teeth are constantly grinding against each other, your enamel will wear out fairly quickly. The first signs you may notice are flattened or sharp-feeling edges throughout your mouth.

It’s Linked to Sleep Apnoea

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) sufferers tend to grind their teeth at night. It happens when your brain is deprived of oxygen and your body starts to struggle. Although it seems counter intuitive for your mouth to tighten instead of open, it’s quite common. Our Wantrina South dentists can screen for other signs of apnoea during your visit to help you nail down a firm diagnosis.

How Studfield Dental Group Can Help

Our Wantrina South dentists can fit you with a custom mouthguard or bite splint to relax your jaw muscles and stop bruxism. If you clench and grind regularly, be sure to mention it during your next exam. Call today to schedule.