Top 5 Side-Effects of Teeth Grinding
The dental term used to describe teeth grinding and clenching is “bruxism.” This is a condition that many of patients suffer from, and can be caused by stress. You may even be doing it at night in your sleep and aren’t aware of it, or it could be a daytime habit that you’re trying to break.
Bruxism has many side effects that can damage your smile and existing dental work. Coming in for regular checkups will help the professionals at Studfield Dental Group in Wantrina South stay abreast of any signs of bruxism, so that you can intervene straightaway.
Some common side effects include:
- Worn Teeth
If left untreated, your teeth will start to show the effects of grinding. If your teeth look shorter than they once were, you may be clenching and not even know it. Flat or very sharp and jagged teeth are common signs. If this continues, the nerve inside your teeth can become exposed, causing severe pain.
- Sensitive Teeth
As your teeth wear down from grinding, you will begin to experience cold sensitivity. The outer layer of the tooth is called enamel. Once this surface is gone, the inner layer, or dentin, is exposed. Dentin is not meant to withstand different temperatures and can be extremely cold sensitive.
- Headaches
Morning headaches are very common in people that clench and grind at night. However, this can occur at any time during the day.
- Jaw Pain
The jaw joint (TMJ,) which is beside the ear, can be painful when touched or during movement.
- Earache
Since the jaw joint is so close the ear, an earache is also very common.
Treatment Options
The most popular treatment option available is a simple one. With the help of an oral appliance called a bite splint, or nightguard, the effects from grinding can be avoided.
Studfield Dental Group in Wantrina South is open Saturdays for your convenience. Give us a call today before you start experiencing irreversible damage caused by bruxism.