You may be wondering to yourself how you could possibly need any kind of treatment if you’ve been practicing exceptional dental hygiene and coming in for preventive visits. Is it really possible that something could go wrong? What you need to realize is that there are two main areas of issues that may negatively affect your oral health. The first are hygiene-related, which means they happen when you don’t keep your smile clean. The second are function related, so they occur when something goes wrong with the way your oral structures work (think jaw joints, muscles, ligaments, etc.). For instance, bruxism is a functional disorder. Let’s talk more.
Why It’s Not Hygiene Related
First and foremost, you want to understand what bruxism is. This is a disorder that is generally characterized by chronic teeth grinding or clenching (or both). It’s referred to as involuntary because it’s not something you set out to do in response to stress or because you enjoy it. Your muscles simply move without you thinking about it (similar to the way you breathe in and out without actively thinking about doing it). Your dental hygiene has nothing to do with bruxism. Instead, while dentists are not certain exactly why it happens, it is often connected to stress, TMJ disorder, and other culprits.
What To Do About It
Don’t assume you don’t need to continue on with your dental hygiene. Remember, your efforts in brushing, flossing, and visits are protecting you from hygiene-related problems like cavities and gum disease. To treat issues with function, such as bruxism (which can leave you with damaged teeth and pain), come see us. We offer bruxism treatment in the form of a comfortable oral splint that you’ll wear at night to alleviate your discomfort and to ease the problem.
Protect Your Smile’s Function
If you’re caring for your smile but something doesn’t feel right, come see us for an appointment. Visit us for a dental checkup in Ankeny, IA by contacting Dental Impressions to schedule a visit at (515) 965-0230.
