Do you wake up with a sore jaw or headache? Have you noticed that your teeth have changed shape? Do you feel that there’s more space between your teeth? Do you feel that your teeth are loose? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, you may suffer from teeth grinding, also known as bruxism.

Teeth grinding can be costly from several perspectives. Because we are likely to experience ongoing pain from teeth grinding, bruxism is associated with chronic pain. This pain can affect our relationships, our social life and professional life. In addition, teeth grinders are more likely to experience tooth fractures or can wear teeth down to stumps. Bruxism also destroys tooth restorations and cosmetic dentistry procedures such as dental veneers. Teeth grinders who do not receive treatment are at a higher risk for dental bridges, dental crowns, root canals, dental implants and dentures. When we consider all costs associated with teeth grinding, a preventative treatment plan becomes important.

Teeth Grinding Prevention

Mouth Guard: Dentists can custom design a mouth guard that fits to the size of your teeth as well as contours of your teeth and tooth restorations. Mouth guards protect your teeth, cosmetic dentistry and tooth restorations from damage due to grinding.
Oral Hygiene: Improper oral hygiene is a contributor to teeth grinding. Daily brushing and flossing is important for teeth grinders. Obtaining dental fillings, root canals, dental crowns and the like, when necessary, reduces the risk of teeth grinding. Proper alignment of your bite, also known as occlusion, helps to prevent teeth grinding.
Massage: Certain massage therapists can focus on areas of the jaw to relax the jaw muscles. Regular massage has been known to alleviate the pain associated with teeth grinding.
Stress Relief: Stress is a factor in teeth grinding. Cardiovascular exercise and weight training help to reduce stress.
Diet: Refrain from caffeine foods and drinks that contribute to teeth grinding. This includes soda, coffee and chocolate. Stay away from alcohol that makes grinding worse. Don’t chew gum as the chewing motion can be a trigger for grinding.

If you have questions about your smile or bruxism, please contact our office!

The American Dental Association recently revealed the results of an oral health survey of 1000 adult Americans.  What they found is that while Americans deem the smile the most important physical attribute, a surprising amount of Americans don’t know that poor oral health has been associated with serious health conditions such as stroke, heart disease and diabetes.  Many survey participants also thought that a little bleeding from brushing is normal, yet it’s not. It could be a sign of gum disease or something even worse.  We want you, our patients, to be healthy and have the knowledge to make good decisions about your dental health. If you have questions about something you see in the news or online, call our office and Dr. Nelson will be happy to talk with you.