Do You Grind Your Teeth?
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common dental concern that often occurs at night while asleep. For this reason, many patients are unaware that they clench or grind their teeth until they visit their dentist. Some patients notice teeth getting shorter or worn down. Unfortunately, worn teeth are the number-one sign of an untreated teeth grinding condition.
Teeth grinding can not only affect the health of your teeth. Bruxism also has a connection to complex bite disorders and Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ & TMD). Teeth grinding is one of the symptoms of a TMJ disorder.
Dr. Abraham Stein provides patients with an in-depth exam, visual screening, and bite analysis at routine dental visits. Early intervention and comprehensive treatment for teeth grinding can prevent future complications and restore balance to your smile.
Treating Teeth Grinding in Skokie, IL
At The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry, we provide comprehensive treatment plans for patients with TMJ disorders. During your consultation, Dr. Stein will perform a complete dental evaluation to decide the best treatment for you. Treatments may include one or more of the following solutions for teeth grinding:
- Mouthguards/Night Guard: A custom mouthguard or night guard can prevent the biting surfaces of your teeth from coming together and stop grinding.
- Orthodontics: For patients with crooked or misaligned teeth, we may recommend orthodontics to realign your teeth. Ask us about Invisalign treatment during your appointment.
- Restorative Dentistry: Dental bonding, dental crowns, and other restorative dentistry treatments can repair your worn-down teeth. Teeth grinding causes damage, so we provide treatments to repair that damage after addressing the root cause.
What Causes Teeth Grinding?
Over time, teeth grinding can wear down the teeth and lead to pain, headaches, and other dental problems. Fortunately, our dentists can identify the causes of teeth grinding and address them promptly. If you notice symptoms like worn teeth, facial pain, or regular headaches, you may want to visit our office for a screening.
During your appointment, our team will look for signs of teeth grinding and the underlying cause of your bruxism. Then we will recommend the best plan of action. The causes of bruxism may include one or more of the following:
- Occlusion: One of the primary causes of teeth grinding is Occlusion, or the way the upper and lower teeth fit together. If your bite does not properly align or your teeth are not forming a stable occlusion, then you will grind your teeth. In this case, the solution is to visit our dentist and get a bite adjustment or a mouthguard to protect your teeth. Our skilled team performs diagnostic testing to determine if there is any dysfunction in your bite.
- Stress: Stress can cause a physical response in your body, which can sometimes manifest itself as bruxism. It can cause us to clench or grind our teeth, and it can become habitual when we are in a heightened state of stress. If stress is the cause of your grinding, then address the underlining stressors in your life to reduce the bruxism. Relaxation techniques such as yoga or deep breathing can help to reduce stress levels and your teeth grinding issues.
- Other Reasons: Certain types of medication and medical movement disorders can cause teeth grinding as well. As well as a combination of genetic, physiological, and physical factors.
Common Signs of Teeth Grinding
Patients with bruxism are more prone to tooth damage, such as chipped teeth, broken or fractured teeth, and worn teeth. In addition to tooth damage, tooth grinding can also cause the following chronic symptoms:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Popping or clicking of the jaw
- Pain or discomfort when moving the jaw
- Painful chewing
- Tooth sensitivity
- Recurring headaches
- Worn, flattened, or fractured teeth
- Sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures
- Earaches or ringing in the ears
- Pain or tightness in facial muscles
- Indentations on the tongue
- Worn enamel on the teeth
In addition to these physical symptoms, teeth grinding can lead to fatigue and sleep disturbance. If you experience any of these signs and symptoms of teeth grinding, seek out professional bruxism treatments.
Teeth Grinding FAQs
Teeth grinding can lead to serious dental issues. Read the answers to these commonly asked questions to learn more.
What causes teeth grinding?
Teeth grinding can be caused by various factors, including stress and anxiety, sleep disorders, or misaligned teeth. Certain medications and lifestyle choices, like excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption, can also contribute to bruxism. In children, teeth grinding may occur due to the eruption of new teeth or as a response to discomfort.
What are the potential effects of untreated teeth grinding?
If left untreated, teeth grinding can lead to several dental problems, including cracked or chipped teeth, worn enamel, and increased tooth sensitivity. It can also cause temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, leading to chronic jaw pain and headaches. Additionally, untreated bruxism can affect your overall quality of life, impacting sleep and daily activities.
Can certain foods or drinks contribute to teeth grinding?
Yes, certain foods and drinks can contribute to teeth grinding. Stimulants like caffeine and alcohol may increase the likelihood of bruxism. Chewy or hard foods can also lead to jaw fatigue, which might exacerbate grinding habits. Being mindful of your diet can help manage teeth grinding symptoms.
How long does treatment for teeth grinding take?
The duration of treatment for teeth grinding varies depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. Using a mouthguard can provide immediate protection, while addressing underlying issues like stress may take longer. Regular follow-ups with your dentist can help monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.
Can teeth grinding lead to tooth loss?
Yes, severe and prolonged teeth grinding can lead to tooth loss due to significant wear and damage. Worn-down teeth can become weaker and more susceptible to decay, cracks, and fractures. Protecting your teeth with a mouthguard and seeking treatment early can help prevent tooth loss related to bruxism.
When should I see a dentist about teeth grinding?
You should see a dentist if you experience symptoms of teeth grinding, such as jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth. It’s also important to consult a dentist if you notice changes in your bite or difficulty opening your mouth. Early intervention can help prevent more severe dental problems and improve your quality of life.
Request a Teeth Grinding Consultation
If you feel like you are grinding your teeth, seek a diagnosis and take steps to stop it. Eventually, the grinding will lead to tooth and jaw pain as well as other dental problems. So, address the issue early-on to prevent any further damage.
The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry provides personalized solutions for all your dentistry needs. We proudly welcome patients in Skokie, Park Ridge, Northfield, Winnetka, and surrounding communities. Visit our office to explore your treatment options for bruxism. To schedule an appointment, call 847-750-3125 or request an appointment online.