When it comes to oral health, many patients’ main concerns include cavities and a good-looking smile. However, there are many other problems that a dentist can help you address. At Dental Impressions of Ankeny, Iowa, we can help treat problems like chronic tooth grinding. This may seem like a small issue, but it can lead to serious complications later. In today’s blog, we are here to discuss what bruxism is, how it can harm your oral health, and how we can help you.
Read more: Grind Your Teeth? We Can HelpWhat Causes This Problem
There is no simple reason that explains why you may be crushing your teeth together. You may have higher levels of stress and anxiety, an uneven bite, and it may even be genetic. For most patients, this typically occurs as they sleep. This means that you are not intentionally doing this, and it can be difficult to realize or stop on your own.
If you begin to notice signs such as your smile’s alignment changing, sore jaw when you wake up, or sensitivity when chewing, you may have bruxism. At your next dentist’s appointment, bring up your concerns with your dentist. We can help identify the problem and produce a solution for you.
Harmful Side Effects Of Bruxism
Grinding your teeth occasionally will not cause considerable damage. However, doing this consistently for an extended period of time can lead to the wearing down of your teeth. This can lead to damaged enamel which cannot be repaired, fracturing your teeth, or having them become loose or falling out.
If this happens, you may need to receive prosthetics to replace or restore missing and damaged teeth. This can cost you a lot of time and money. If the problem itself is not addressed, then you will end up wearing down your prosthetics, too, which you may not be able to replace.
TMJ dysfunction is also often associated with bruxism. This is a disorder where you place too much tension on your jawbone. This can cause toothaches, earaches, headaches, and other uncomfortable problems.
How We Can Help
A custom-made oral appliance is a simple and effective way to treat this problem. After a consultation with Dr. Foust, we can identify the area that is causing you the most trouble. Then we will create an oral appliance made to fit your smile perfectly. You will wear this device at night. An oral appliance helps relax your joints and muscles and can function as a barrier between your teeth so that they can be protected from gnashing together.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Do not put off treating your chronic grinding problem. For more information about your bruxism treatment options, schedule an appointment with our team by calling Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA at (515) 965-0230 today.
