SIGNS YOU MAY BE GRINDING YOUR TEETH

Your dentist in Belmont can help you keep your teeth free of plaque and address tooth decay, but there are other factors that can affect your oral health. One of these factors is bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching. This condition can result in problems with your teeth and jaw, so taking steps to prevent teeth grinding is important. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist to learn about treating bruxism.

Noticeable Grinding
Oftentimes, people grind their teeth while they are sleeping. This occurs because slumber inhibits the area of the brain that controls reflex nerves. Because grinding occurs during sleep, many people do not realize they are suffering from bruxism until their sleeping partner hears the grinding noises. In some cases, the grinding can be loud enough to disturb the other person’s slumber.

Damage to Teeth
The action of teeth grinding wears down the protective enamel on teeth, which leaves teeth susceptible to damage and decay. It’s also possible for teeth grinding to lead to chips and fractures in the teeth. The teeth may also become flattened or loose due to repetitive grinding. If you have noticed damage to your teeth without a discernable cause, teeth grinding may be to blame.

Pain and Sensitivity
When tooth enamel is worn down, it can make a person more susceptible to toothaches and tooth sensitivity. You may notice pain due to heat, cold, or pressure on the teeth. It’s also common to experience pain, stiffness, or tenderness in the jaw and the surrounding muscles. You may notice that it is difficult to open and close your mouth or hear a clicking or popping sound when you open your mouth. In some cases, headaches or pain in the ear also occur due to teeth grinding