You might grind your teeth on occasion, but is it worth bringing up to your dentist during your next visit? Bruxism, or chronic teeth-grinding, is a more common problem than many people realize. However, it isn’t always obvious that there is a problem, especially since many people grind their teeth most often at night. At our Celina, TX, dental office, we can help you determine if your teeth-grinding habit should be considered a problem, and how a custom bruxism appliance can help you solve it, if it is.
When you can’t control it anymore
The most characteristic sign of bruxism is the fact that you can’t control your teeth-grinding habit. If it’s just a nervous reaction or tic, then you can force yourself to stop grinding your teeth and not have to worry about it again. However, if you have bruxism, then you can force yourself to stop, but will find yourself grinding your teeth again before long. If it’s persistent despite your conscious efforts to stop it, then your habit of teeth-grinding could actually be the condition known as bruxism.
When your teeth feel like they’ve had enough
Because the clenching and grinding is unconscious, you also can’t modulate the pressure of your bite when you have bruxism. The grinding will be especially intense, and before long, the chewing surfaces of your teeth will begin to wear down and, possibly, become damaged. Healthy teeth are strong and resilient, but under that much pressure, they’re bound to become compromised. Preferably, you should seek treatment before this damage becomes severe. However, if they are damaged, then we can also design appropriate treatment to restore them.
When your dentist tells you it is
Even if you don’t notice that you grind your teeth too much, your dentist will be able to tell as your teeth start to wear down and change. During your routine exam and cleaning appointment, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and oral tissues for signs of trouble, including the wear that occurs when you have bruxism. If your dentist diagnoses you with bruxism, then you should treat it as soon as possible, such as with a custom-made appliance that you can wear to protect your teeth while you sleep at night.
Learn how to stop grinding your teeth
If you grind your teeth constantly, then the only way to protect your smile from it is with professional bruxism treatment. To learn more, schedule a consultation with us by calling Celina Family Dentistry in Celina, TX, today at (214) 851-0130.
Recent Comments