Your oral health is our highest concern at King Street Dental Centre. A common condition in our patients is chronic teeth grinding, which is called bruxism in the medical field. However, that might sound like a small thing—particularly if it is not conscious—over time, tooth grinding can take a toll on your dental health and quality of life.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism, the involuntary tightening or grinding of teeth, occurs during sleep but may also occur during the day without a person being aware of it. While occasional teeth grinding is regular, the habit can have serious complications.
How Bruxism Affects Your Oral Health Over Time
Tooth Damage and Wear: Overexertion pressure of the teeth from grinding can cause wear and tear. This can ultimately lead to chips, flat wear, or cracks in one or more teeth, altering their appearance and function.
TMJ Disorders: Constant grinding can overwork the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw to the skull. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and even trouble moving the jaw.
Headaches and Facial Pain: The strain of constantly grinding can cause sore jaw muscles, leading to frequent headaches and general discomfort in the face.
Tooth Sensitivity and Gum Issues: Over time, grinding can wear down tooth enamel, exposing the more sensitive inner layers of the tooth and making your teeth more sensitive. It can also cause gum recession, exposing roots and heightening the risk of decay.”
Sleep Disturbances: Bruxism not only impacts your teeth — it disrupts sleep, too, for both the tooth grinder and a sleep partner, which can lead to fatigue and lower quality of life.
Why You Should Seek Professional Help
At King Street Dental Centre, we provide individualized treatment to help manage and treat chronic teeth grinding. Here’s how we can help:
Custom Night Guards: Our mouthguards are designed to fit your teeth perfectly and act as a protective barrier for your teeth while you sleep, minimizing the effects of grinding and stopping further destruction.
Stress Management Guidance: Since stress is a leading cause of bruxism, we provide tips for stress-relieving practices and lifestyle changes that may help to cure the real problem.
Restorative Dental Treatments: If your teeth have already been damaged, we might recommend crowns or veneers to restore their appearance and function.
Don’t Ignore the Signs
Chronic teeth grinding isn’t just a bad habit; it’s a condition that can wreak havoc on your oral and overall health in the long run. If you or a loved one notice signs of bruxism, don’t delay. Get a comprehensive exam and a tailored treatment plan at King Street Dental Centre. If you do, you will be taking steps to protect your smile — and your health — for many years to come.