Understanding and Treating Bruxism
Many individuals unknowingly grind or clench their teeth while they sleep—a common condition known as bruxism. Over time, this habit can seriously compromise your oral health. While underlying stress or anxiety often contributes to bruxism, its nocturnal nature makes it difficult to stop immediately.
Putting an end to bruxism may require consistent time and varied treatments. However, you can take immediate steps to protect your teeth from damage. If you suspect you grind or clench your teeth, Victory Smiles Dental Center in Woodlands offers specialized bruxism treatment.
Identifying the Signs of Bruxism
How can you tell if you are grinding or clenching your teeth at night?
- Morning Jaw Soreness: A key indicator is waking up with a tight or sore jaw. If your jaw feels tense in the morning, you were likely clenching it throughout the night.
- Insight from Others: If you share a room or bed, a partner or family member might complain about hearing you grind your teeth. Their observation is a strong sign that bruxism may be a concern.
The Impact of Teeth Grinding on Dental Health
Bruxism is more than just a habit; it significantly affects your oral health:
- Severe Tooth Wear: The most obvious impact is the damage caused by the additional pressure and friction. This wears down tooth enamel over time.
- Changes in Tooth Shape: Eventually, grinding can flatten the shape of your teeth so severely that dental crowns are required for repair and restoration.
- Exacerbated Jaw Pain: Bruxism can contribute to or worsen symptoms of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), including chronic jaw pain, clicking, and popping.
Effective Bruxism Treatment Options
Bruxism should not be ignored, as it can cause progressive harm to your dental health. While breaking the habit takes time, the best way to protect your teeth in the interim is by using bruxism appliances.
Victory Smiles Dental Center offers custom night mouth guards as one of the most effective ways to keep your teeth safe during episodes of grinding or clenching. We provide both partial and complete custom-fitted mouthguards
Visit a Victory Smiles Dental Center Today!
If you frequently wake up with a tired, sore jaw, it's time to seek a personalized solution. Victory Smiles Dental Center is ready to assist you with comprehensive bruxism treatment in The Woodlands:
Your treatment journey begins with a consultation to assess your needs, followed by taking a dental impression. You will then return for a final fitting when your custom mouthguard is ready.
