Commonly referred to as bruxism, teeth grinding and clenching is an extremely common dental condition. Many children clench and grind the teeth, though most tend to outgrow the condition before they reach adulthood. Many adults also clench and grind the teeth both during the waking and the sleeping hour.
In dentistry, although bruxism is recognized as a common condition, it should not be ignored. The damage and side effects of this condition can be painful, irreversible, and disruptive to your lifestyle. Making plans to speak with your Plainview dentistabout your bruxism habit should be considered a high priority.
The signs and symptoms of bruxism can range from mild to severe. Popping and clicking of the jaw joint, headaches and neck aches, and difficulty chewing typically indicate a level of dysfunction in the joint. Many patients suffering from the disorder have been informed by loved ones and family members that the sounds of grinding teeth can be especially loud at night. The sounds can be just as disruptive as snoring.
It is important to contact your dentist if you show any of the above signs because the effects of bruxism can be more severe than occasional disturbed sleep or a clicking jaw joint. Bruxism is also known to contribute to:
-Damage of the teeth and enamel, including chipped or broken fillings and fractured porcelain (on crowns and bridges). Even the enamel near the gumline can eventually fracture away (known as abfraction) leaving exposed root surfaces and weakened teeth.
-Tooth sensitivity and the inflammation of the periodontal ligaments can occur in response to the tremendous forces that are generated when clenching and grinding. The teeth can become hypersensitive to normal stimuli such as temperature, pressure, and sweets.
-Bone loss, or periodontal disease, is a troublesome and irreversible consequence of bruxism. As the bone resorbs and the gumline begins to recede, the teeth lose vital support. These tissues are unable to regenerate, and periodontal disease becomes a lifelong condition.
Damage to the TMJ (jaw joint), leading to popping, clicking, joint pain, inflammation, arthritis, lockjaw, difficulty biting and chewing can lessen your quality of life and trigger a chain reaction of side effects. Be proactive against the effects of bruxism. Call our dental team at 516-681-2525 to schedule an appointment today to learn about your treatment options.