Millions of people grind and clench their teeth, usually while they sleep. Typically environmental problems like stress are to blame, but others may have dental problems that contribute to teeth grinding like TMJ Disorder, malocclusion or misaligned teeth. Prolonged teeth grinding can further contribute to these problems and result in headaches, chipped or worn teeth.
Teeth grinding is one of the most overlooked dental concerns that patients experience. In fact, most people don’t realize they suffer from it. Dr. Stephen Hoard offers a number of treatment options for patients to manage bruxism and prevent damage to teeth.
Common signs of bruxism include:
- Worn, chipped or jagged teeth
- Dull or worn tooth enamel
- Sensitive teeth
- Broken fillings and/or crowns
- Headaches, especially in the morning
- Jaw pain or soreness
Treatments for Teeth Grinding in New Bern
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for teeth grinding. Depending on your condition, treatment could include one or several different treatments. The first line of treatment is often a mouth guard to protect teeth from grinding and clenching during sleep. Other treatment may include the following:
- Orthodontics: If your teeth are not in proper alignment, Dr. Hoard may suggest orthodontic treatment. Dr. Hoard works with a local New Bern orthodontist to design and implement treatment plans that reposition the teeth, allowing them to fit harmoniously and preventing grinding and clenching.
- Bite Equilibration: Bite equilibration, or bite correction therapy, involves the dentist making minor adjustments to the teeth to allow them to fit together properly, eliminating stress and pressure.
- Restorative Dentistry: Once the bruxism has been successfully managed, the next step is often to repair worn or broken teeth. Dr. Hoard offers restorative dentistry procedures to bring teeth back to optimal health and esthetics. Restorative dental treatments include dental crowns, porcelain veneers, and/or cosmetic bonding.
The Long-Term Impact of Untreated Teeth Grinding
Leaving teeth grinding untreated can lead to serious dental problems over time. The constant pressure can wear down your teeth, making them shorter and more sensitive. This damage can lead to cracks, fractures, or even tooth loss.
The strain on your jaw muscles and joints can also become chronic. You might notice ongoing pain, worsening TMJ Disorder, and changes to your facial shape. Addressing bruxism early is the best way to protect your smile and prevent costly dental repairs in the future.
How a Custom Night Guard Protects Your Smile
A custom-fitted night guard is a comfortable, removable appliance worn while you sleep. It acts as a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. The guard absorbs and distributes the intense forces created by clenching and grinding. It prevents this pressure from damaging your tooth enamel, crowns, and fillings.
By cushioning your jaw joints, it can also reduce morning headaches and jaw soreness. A guard from Dr. Hoard is precisely designed for your bite, ensuring maximum comfort and protection.
Lifestyle Changes That Can Help Reduce Grinding
While dental treatments are essential, managing daily habits can also help reduce teeth grinding. Since stress is a major cause, techniques like regular exercise, deep breathing, or meditation before bed can relax your jaw muscles.
Try to avoid chewing on non-food items like pens or fingernails during the day, as this can train your jaw to clench. Cutting back on caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evening, may also decrease grinding episodes. Dr. Hoard can discuss which lifestyle adjustments might be most helpful for your specific situation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly causes bruxism?
Teeth grinding is often caused by a combination of physical and psychological factors. The most common cause is stress or anxiety, which can lead you to clench your jaw unconsciously, especially during sleep. Physical causes can include an abnormal bite, crooked or missing teeth, or a sleep disorder like sleep apnea. Sometimes, certain medications or lifestyle factors like high caffeine intake can also contribute to the problem.
How do I know for sure if I grind my teeth at night?
Many people are unaware they grind their teeth because it happens during sleep. Common signs include waking up with a dull headache, jaw soreness, or tooth sensitivity. Your partner might hear grinding sounds at night, or you may notice that your teeth look flattened, chipped, or have jagged edges. The most definitive way to know is to schedule an exam with Dr. Hoard, who can look for telltale signs of wear on your enamel and assess your jaw muscles.
Will a store-bought mouthguard work as well as a custom one?
While a store-bought guard offers some protection, it is not as effective or comfortable as a custom-made night guard from our office. Boil-and-bite guards can be bulky, may not fit your teeth precisely, and can sometimes worsen clenching. A custom guard is professionally fabricated from a model of your teeth, ensuring a perfect, comfortable fit. It will properly distribute force, protect your jaw joint, and is durable enough for long-term use.
Can teeth grinding lead to other health problems beyond my teeth?
Yes, chronic bruxism can impact your overall health. The constant strain can lead to or worsen TMJ disorders, causing chronic jaw pain, clicking, and limited movement. Tension headaches and migraines are very common.
In severe cases, it can contribute to facial pain that feels like an earache. Furthermore, the associated stress and sleep disruption can negatively affect your general well-being and quality of life.
If I get a night guard, will I have to wear it forever?
Not necessarily, but it depends on the root cause of your grinding. For many people, bruxism is linked to stress, which can be temporary or managed over time. You may wear a guard consistently until the damaging habit is under control or while undergoing other treatments like bite correction.
Dr. Hoard will monitor your progress and can advise if you can reduce usage. He may also recommend long-term protection to safeguard your dental work and oral health.
Can children grind their teeth, and does it need to be treated?
Yes, teeth grinding is common in children, especially when their baby teeth and permanent teeth are coming in. It often resolves on its own without causing damage. However, if you notice significant wear, complaints of jaw pain, or if the habit persists, have it evaluated as soon as possible. Dr. Hoard can assess if there’s an underlying cause, like misaligned teeth, and recommend if a protective pediatric night guard or other intervention is needed.
How does restorative dentistry fix the damage from grinding?
Restorative dentistry repairs the structural damage caused by years of grinding. For worn-down teeth, dental crowns can cover and protect the entire tooth, restoring its original shape and strength.
Porcelain veneers can correct chips and restore a smooth, even appearance to the front teeth. Cosmetic bonding uses tooth-colored resin to rebuild minor chips and cracks. These treatments are typically performed after the grinding is managed to ensure the new restorations are protected.
What is bite equilibration, and how does it help with grinding?
Bite equilibration is a precise, non-invasive procedure where Dr. Hoard makes minor adjustments to the biting surfaces of your teeth. The goal is to eliminate high spots or interferences that prevent your teeth from fitting together harmoniously. When your bite is balanced, it reduces the abnormal stress signals that can trigger your jaw muscles to clench and grind. This therapy can provide significant, long-lasting relief and is often combined with a night guard for comprehensive management.
When you’re ready, call our New Bern dental practice at (252) 507-0373. You can also request an appointment online anytime. We are your comprehensive dental office for all your issues.
