The Damaging Side Effects Of Bruxism

Do you often wake up with headaches or pain in your jaw? Have your teeth started to feel more sensitive than before? These may be symptoms of bruxism, or the chronic grinding of your teeth together often done while you sleep or are unaware. This habit is typically not done on purpose, and it can cause serious damage to your smile if left untreated. Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA can help patients diagnose, treat, and repair damage done by bruxism.

Harm To Your Physical And Dental Health

If you occasionally grind your teeth when you are stressed or tense, it will not have a lasting effect. However, if this is done repetitively for a long time, it can harm your health. When you clench your jaw together, it can cause the teeth to scrape or gnash each other. Over time, you may notice that they are more sensitive, easily chipped, or the area frequently aches. Having sensitive and worn-down teeth can lead to more trips to the dentist for restorative work. In addition to this, it may also disrupt your sleep, which can cause you to be irritable and have increased feelings of anxiety or depression.

Treating The Problem

Your dentist may be able to tell that you have bruxism by examining your oral cavity. You can also bring up your symptoms at your next checkup. If it is determined that you have this condition, they can help create a treatment plan that will help you. In many cases, a custom oral appliance can be worn to protect the teeth from scraping against each other as you sleep. You can help this condition by practicing stress-relief techniques or physical therapy depending on what the cause of this disorder may be.

Restoring Damaged Teeth

Some common problems that happen due to bruxism include worn-down enamel, easily broken teeth, and frequent cavities. Once the condition has been diagnosed and a treatment plan has been created, the dentist can help repair your pearly whites. For patients with worn down or broken teeth, a dental crown may be used to protect them from further damage. These are often made of porcelain or zirconia and will match the appearance of your smile. Cavities can be restored with fillings, or root canals in more severe cases of decay. If you have sensitive teeth, it may be beneficial to switch to a more delicate toothpaste and avoid consuming extremely hot or cold foods and beverages. Sensitivity may go away on its own, but if you have questions or concerns, you can bring these up with your dentist.

Talk To Your Dentist Today

If you grind your teeth, we may be able to help you. To schedule an appointment, call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.