Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can wreak havoc on your oral health and quality of life. At Smyrna Dental & Headache Center in Smyrna, Georgia, we understand the negative effects of teeth grinding and offer effective treatment options to alleviate your symptoms. Below, we provide clarity on teeth grinding and its management, empowering you to take control of your oral health and put an end to teeth grinding for good.
FAQs about Teeth Grinding Treatment:
1. What is teeth grinding, and what causes it?
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, involves the unconscious clenching, gnashing, or grinding of teeth, often happening during sleep. Stress, anxiety, misaligned teeth, sleep disorders, and lifestyle habits like caffeine intake and smoking are common contributors to this condition.
2. What are the common symptoms of teeth grinding?
Common symptoms of teeth grinding include jaw pain or stiffness, headaches, earaches, tooth sensitivity, worn-down tooth enamel, fractured or chipped teeth, and disrupted sleep patterns.
3. How can teeth grinding affect oral health?
Teeth grinding can have detrimental effects on oral health, including tooth wear and damage, increased risk of cavities and tooth fractures, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and chronic facial pain.
4. Must I treat teeth grinding?
If you have mild bruxism that doesn’t affect your everyday life, you don’t always need formal treatment. However, remember your condition can progress over time. It’s always safe to talk to a doctor to prevent the advancement of your condition. Conservative treatments at this level may include lifestyle changes and stress management techniques.
5. What are occlusal orthotics, and how do they help with bruxism?
An occlusal orthotic is a thin, strong acrylic guard worn over your teeth to prevent tooth-to-tooth contact when grinding or clenching your teeth. An occlusal splint doesn’t stop teeth grinding. Instead, it is a specially designed mouth guard, customized for each patient, that guides your jaw to a neutral position, allowing your muscles and joints to relax and heal. A balanced bite reduces the unpleasant symptoms of teeth grinding.
6. When should a dental orthotic be worn?
A dental orthotic is a removable device worn at night when most people experience bruxism. However, it can be worn during the day for people with daytime bruxism. Don’t worry about conspicuousness! Your device can be created from a transparent or tooth-colored material for discreetness.
7. How is a dental orthotic fitted?
Your orthotic device is custom-made in at least two appointments. During the first appointment, the doctor uses computerized instruments to measure your teeth and accurately measure the proper position of your muscles. Our dental lab then uses these measurements to create your device.
When your device is ready, you’ll come to our office to pick it up We will ensure it fits snugly over your teeth and within the confines of your bite.
8. Do I need to replace my occlusal orthotic?
Although your orthotic device is made of strong and durable materials, it won’t last forever. If we can eliminate the underlying cause of your bruxism, you may not have to wear the orthotic long-term. Over time, your dental appliance may chip, loosen, or even break. Your occlusal orthotic must be changed when this happens to continue protecting your smile.
Ready to put your teeth grinding to rest and protect your oral health? Schedule a consultation at Smyrna Dental & Headache Center to learn more about dental orthotic treatment for teeth grinding. Our team offers personalized care and effective solutions to alleviate your symptoms. Contact us today at (678) 374-3764 to reclaim comfort and preserve your smile for years to come.