Are Your Teeth Feeling The Pressure? How Ro Help Patients Who Clench And Grind Teeth

At Brown & Gettings, DDS, we not only care about our patients’ oral health, but their overall health as well. When you visit our office for a routine hygiene examination, we do more than just clean your teeth and inspect for decay, we look for signs of weakness in your teeth and mouth that can lead to serious complications in the future. One red flag that indicates a problem is worn teeth. Worn teeth can be a sign that you are clenching and grinding your teeth, a condition known as bruxism.

Why is Bruxism Problematic?

Bruxism is a condition in which patients clench, grind or gnash their teeth. Although this can occur during any time of day, it commonly occurs during sleep, leaving many patients unaware of the effects on the teeth. During a routine appointment, we may notice worn teeth or teeth that are cracked or broken. If bruxism remains left untreated, the teeth will eventually no longer be able to tolerate the extra pressure and a dental emergency may occur — typically in the form of a cracked or broken tooth. Patients can look for warning signs before it gets to this point. Contact our office if you experience symptoms such as:

• Jaw discomfort
• Headaches
• Sore teeth
• Tooth sensitivity

Possible Solutions

When evaluating a patient who suffers from bruxism, we first need to determine if the bite or placement of teeth need to be adjusted with the help of clear aligners. We will also determine if any treatments are needed to repair any damaged teeth. Depending on the tooth’s location, we may suggest a treatment such as a dental crown.

One common long-term solution is using a customized nightguard. This appliance is designed and fitted to your teeth as a way to keep the jaws slightly apart while you sleep. It eliminates pressure on the teeth, helps with muscle strain, and prevents further damage.

If you are located in the West Chester, OH area, experience bruxism, and are interested in learning more about a customized nightguard, be sure to contact our office to schedule an appointment. We want to help prevent any further damage to your teeth and mouth.