it as, “The involuntary or habitual grinding of teeth, typically during sleep.” In a high majority of cases, the individual suffering from this condition isn’t aware, and continues to live their life with the range of side effects.
The Warning Signs
The following list can help indicate if you may be grinding your teeth at night:
- Overly sensitive teeth
- If your bite feels different or misaligned
- Sore, painful jaw joints and muscles
- Chronic headaches in the morning that last into your day.
- Your partner mentions they hear you rubbing your teeth together at night
Your dentist may also notice cracked or fractured teeth, worn down occlusal surfaces, or tooth misalignment specific to bruxism in addition to the warning signs you may be taking not of above on a daily basis.
What Causes Bruxism?
Stress and anxiety are marked as two of the top reason teeth grinding occurs in most cases. TMJ Disorder along with misaligned teeth can also cause bruxism. Each case depends on the individual’s mouth, sleeping, habits, and oral structure and overall function. Different degrees of discomfort of pain exists for each person experiencing this unfortunate condition.
How Is It Treated?
Your local Ankeny, Ia dentist will take impressions of your teeth during an examination visit and use the impressions to have a custom mouthguard created for you. This treatment is the most common, and in a high majority of cases helps relieve the day to day discomfort or pain many patients encounter.
Also, depending on the degree of your condition, instructions will be presented to you prior to leaving the dental office with your mouthguard.
Preventive measures are usually encouraged to ensure your condition does not persist or return at a later time.
ABOUT YOUR ANKENY DENTIST:
Since 2006, Dr. Amanda Foust has proudly treated families in Ankeny, Alleman, Elkhart, Bondurant, and all surrounding communities. To learn more, schedule an appointment with your Ankeny, IA dentist today. You can reach Dental Impressions by calling (515) 965-0230.
