Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding and clenching, a habit that is pretty awful for the teeth. If left untreated and you keep with the habit, the tooth enamel will wear down eventually, making your teeth more sensitive and even get to losing them altogether in the most extreme cases.
If you have found yourself clenching your teeth, it is important to know if whether it is frequent or not.
What is the cause of bruxism?
Bruxism can be caused by many things, but first we have to leave it clear that it can happen consciously during the day, or while we are asleep.
As for the reasons, it ranges: anxiety, stress, sleep disorders, or other mouth problems. For this very reason it is important to keep problems away or try to look for a way to not clench the teeth. Our Los Algodones dentist recommend keeping an eye to what situations trigger bruxism for you.
What bruxism does to you
Whether you clench your teeth while you sleep or during the day, you may experience an array of consequences. So hopefully by knowing all these risks you can be swayed to be mindful about bruxism:
- It causes teeth fractures. As you know, our teeth’s surfaces are made of tooth enamel, which is the hardest substance in our bodies. By grinding these together, you are wearing them down. Think of it as only a diamond can scratch another one.
- Extended bruxism leads to micro-cracks in the teeth as well as wears away dental fillings. This also makes the temperature hit your teeth directly, thus tooth sensitivity.
- Constant grinding has shown to lead to tooth loss.
- Failing to stop bruxism can wear down your teeth a great deal, making them look more flat.
- As a side effect, you get headaches and even earache from grinding your teeth together.
- You can notice the damage done to the teeth for someone who clenches them constantly.
- Since you are clenching your teeth, you are also subjected to biting your mouth, thus getting sores in the process.
Tips to stop bruxism
As we mentioned before, bruxism during the day is mostly caused by stress and anxiety. As such, our Los Algodones dentists recommend seeking professional help or soothing activities.
- If the bruxism happens at night, while you are sleeping specifically, then we advise the use of a mouth guard. Generally you want to have a custom made mouth guard as opposed to a store bought one. You can consult with your dentist for further help.
- You can place your tongue betwe en your teeth when you notice you are grinding your teeth. This helps you change your mind set in the long run, teaching you to slowly relax your jaw muscles.
- The habit of chewing too much gum makes you a tad more susceptible to make you clench your teeth. Also, if you are chewing gum, make sure it is sugar free.
- Avoid using substances such as caffeine and alcohol that might alter your mood. This is because some people get a bit jumpy or more prone to stress under these substances, so cutting them back would not be a bad idea at all.
- If you suffer from any sleep disorder that is likely causing the bruxism, then you should get that treated.
Remember you can always ask questions away at your dentist, as they are professional in the subject. If you are looking for the cheapest treatments and procedures, you can contact us here.