Woman with jaw pain from tooth grinding

Treatment For Tooth Grinding (Bruxism)

Clenching or grinding your teeth is known as bruxism. If you suffer from this condition, it can have a tremendous negative impact on your health and your smile. You might experience frequent headaches, jaw pain and muscle aches around the face, jaw and side of head.  One of the most successful bruxism treatments is wearing a custom mouth guard. This appliance cushions the teeth and protects them from further damage. Our team at Platinum Dental Care in Toronto, ON explore four reasons to treat your bruxism with a custom mouth guard.

#1: Bruxism Can Damage Your Teeth

While it’s true that tooth enamel is the strongest substance in the human body, it can still become damaged. For example. If you constantly clench or grind your teeth together, your enamel could wear down. As this erosion continues, the teeth become more sensitive and more vulnerable to decay and other forms of dental damage. In severe cases, the teeth can actually break or fracture under the pressure, leaving you with a serious need for restorative treatments.

#2: Bruxism Can Damage Your Gums
Patients who suffer from bruxism are at a much higher risk for gum recession. As pressure is placed on the teeth, they are more likely to move and shift. Left untreated, this can cause the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth over time. Grinding or clenching the teeth also place pressure on the blood vessels in the area. As a result, the gum tissue does not receive proper nourishment.

#3: Bruxism Can Lead to TMJ Disorder
When excessive pressure is placed on the teeth, stress is also placed on the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). This can occur for a number of reasons. First, the disk that cushions the jaw joints may erode or wear thin. Additionally, tooth erosion may occur over time, which can change the way your teeth fit together. As a result, your jaw joints may try to overcompensate for the problem by working harder. This can lead to inflammation of the TMJ muscles.

#4: Bruxism Can Be Painful
If bruxism is a new issue, you may not experience a significant amount of discomfort. Left untreated, however, painful symptoms can develop. These may include:
• Chronic headaches
• Severe jaw pain
• Lockjaw
• Earaches
• Muscle fatigue
• Soft tissue damage

Bruxism Risk Factors: What You Should Know

There are certain risk factors that increase your chances for developing bruxism. These include:
• Increased levels of stress
• Aggressive or hyperactive personality type
• Family history of bruxism
• Certain medications, such as antidepressants
• Disorders such as dementia, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disorder, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, sleep apnea, and ADHD
If any of these risk factors are describe you, bruxism could develop as a result. To keep your teeth and gums healthy, be sure to attend routine dental visits.

When to See Your Toronto Dentist for Bruxism Treatment

If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to schedule a visit with your dentist. During a comprehensive evaluation, he or she can help you determine the best course of action. If a custom mouth guard is recommended, impressions will be taken of your teeth. These molds will be used to fabricate your new oral appliance.

If you suspect you may be suffering from bruxism, reach out to a team member at Platinum Dental Care in Toronto, ON.  We can assess your teeth for any damage and create your night guard for jaw pain relief from tooth grinding.