Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a common issue that often sneaks up on people when they’re stressed. Stress can build up tension in your body. Unfortunately, the jaw is a prime spot where this tension settles. That tightness can lead to grinding or clenching your teeth, often without you even realizing it.
Most teeth grinding happens while you’re asleep. This habit can wear down your teeth and leave them more vulnerable to cracks or chips. You might also notice other problems, like sore jaw joints, trouble opening or closing your mouth, neck pain, and frequent headaches. If any of this sounds familiar, it’s a sign you should address the problem sooner rather than later.
The good news? We have ways to manage stress and protect your teeth from further damage. Our dentists are here to help with treatments to prevent grinding and repair damage. Let’s explore how we treat bruxism and how you can keep your smile safe.
How Restorative Dentistry Helps with Bruxism
When teeth grinding damages your teeth, restorative dental treatments can step in to fix the issue. Bruxism puts extra pressure on your teeth, and over time, this can cause them to chip, crack, or even wear down significantly.
One popular solution is dental crowns. A crown acts like a protective cap and covers a tooth that is weak from constant grinding. It helps restore the tooth’s strength and prevents further wear. Crowns are especially useful if bruxism causes visible or structural issues with your teeth.
In severe cases, long-term grinding might weaken a tooth so much that it can’t be saved. If our dentist needs to extract a tooth, you still have options to maintain your smile.
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. They’re durable, long-lasting, and look and feel like natural teeth. Other options, like bridges or dentures, might also be a good fit, depending on your needs.
Relieving Jaw Strain and Reducing Symptoms
While you’re repairing damaged teeth, you should address the root cause of bruxism. This often means reducing the strain on your jaw and finding ways to relax those overworked muscles.
Jaw exercises and stretches can be incredibly helpful. These simple movements ease tension in your facial muscles, reduce discomfort, and stop grinding. Some people even find these exercises relaxing, which can help them avoid future grinding episodes.
Another effective option is oral appliance therapy. Night guards, for example, are custom-made devices you wear while you sleep. They act as a cushion that keeps your teeth from grinding together. They also protect your enamel from further damage.
Night guards can also reduce pressure on your jaw joints. This helps alleviate pain or stiffness in your jaw in the morning. Night guards are a great option, but remember that addressing the cause is more important than short-term solutions.
Don’t Wait to Address Teeth Grinding
Bruxism might start as a minor issue, but it can cause major problems. Chronic teeth grinding can lead to severe tooth damage, ongoing jaw pain, and a lower quality of life. But with the right combination of restorative treatments and preventive care, you can protect your teeth and improve your well-being.
Don’t wait to reach out to our dentists. Dental Implants & Cosmetic Dentistry of Towson can help you deal with jaw pain, frequent headaches, or other symptoms of bruxism. The sooner you address the problem, the better chance you have of preventing long-term damage.
Dr. Boenning and Dr. Dancykier can work with you to find the right treatment plan that fixes the root cause. We can repairing damage with crowns, relieve strain with exercises, or protecting your teeth with a custom night guard. Acting now can save you a lot of trouble later and help you enjoy a healthier, more comfortable smile for years to come.