The Truth About Bruxism

If you’ve noticed that your teeth have become more sensitive or you have been easily chipped, it may be due to a habit that happens while you sleep. Bruxism is a condition that causes patients to grind their teeth in their sleep or when they are unaware it is happening and affects many people across the US. Your team at Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, is here to discuss what may cause this, how to get diagnosed, and how to relieve your symptoms.

Bruxism Is Not Done On Purpose

You may occasionally clench your jaw when you are stressed or anxious. This habit is not the same as bruxism, though. When you chronically grind your teeth at night, you are not aware that it is happening and are not doing this on purpose. In reality, it can be difficult to know that this is happening because you may not feel it while you sleep. Over time, you may notice that you are waking up with soreness around your jaw, headaches, or your pearly whites are more sensitive when eating certain foods. If you begin to notice these symptoms more frequently, you should seek professional care as soon as possible.

You May Not Be Able To Stop On Your Own

This condition is fairly common among kids and younger patients. Various factors including the alignment of your teeth, anxiety, and some medical conditions may cause your child to grind their teeth in their sleep. In some cases, orthodontic treatment may help align their pearly whites and relieve their symptoms. They may also grow out of bruxism over time and may not need treatment. However, if this problem persists throughout adulthood, or if you develop it as an adult, you may need professional treatment. When you come in for your appointment, your dentist can help diagnose the problem and can create an oral appliance to help relieve your symptoms.

There Is A Non-Surgical Treatment Option

Some patients may wait to seek treatment for bruxism because they believe they will grow out of it or worry that surgery will be required. Luckily, an oral appliance can often help protect your dental structures and relieve symptoms over time. You will wear this guard every night while you sleep to help protect your teeth from hitting each other while you sleep. If your pearly whites have been damaged from this excessive clenching, restorative options like dental crowns can be used to cover and protect the area from further damage. In more serious cases, tooth replacement options like a bridge or implant can be used to replace a tooth that has been significantly damaged.

Talk To Our Team Today To Learn More

We could help diagnose and treat your teeth grinding habit. You can schedule an appointment with Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, today by calling (515) 965-0230.