Grinding or clenching of teeth, a condition medically known as bruxism, can manifest either consciously or unconsciously. Many individuals may experience occasional bouts of grinding or clenching, which often pose no immediate harm. However, when this behavior becomes a regular occurrence, it can result in damage to oral tissues and give rise to various other oral health complications.
The motivations behind teeth grinding are not always straightforward and can differ from one patient to another. At Santa Paula Dentist – Channel Islands Family Dental Office, our dedicated experts diligently investigate the underlying factors contributing to bruxism, whether they are physical, psychological, or genetic in nature. We are committed to providing comprehensive care to address the root causes of teeth grinding and safeguard your dental well-being. Visit us today for a personalized assessment and tailored solutions.
Awake Bruxism: clenching and grinding of teeth caused during the day while being awake. It is usually related to emotional issues, such as feeling anxious, stressed or angry.
Sleep Bruxism: On the other hand, when someone grind or clench their teeth while being asleep. Our specialist at Channel Islands family dental office, explains our patients since they asleep they are unaware of the condition, and an lead to jaw pains and other problems related to oral health. In some kids, grinding happens due to the improper alignment of upper and lower jaws. In some cases, it can happen as a response to teething or pain in the ear. In adult or young children, stress and anxiety is generally the cause for teeth grinding or jaw clenching.
Lifestyle habits such as smoking, drinking alcohol, recreational drugs or consuming a lot of caffeine can also cause night grinding or clenching.
Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea can also be one of the reasons for bruxism.
How to diagnose: Teeth grinding or jaw clenching usually happens during the sleep and is most likely noticed by parents or siblings. However, having a constant dull headache or sore jaw after waking up could be symptoms of bruxism. If you think you or someone in your family may be grinding their teeth in sleep, talk to your dentist. Dental specialist can examine you physically examine your mouth for any signs of bruxism such as tenderness in jaw and wear and tear to rule out other causes like ear infections.
Teeth grinding or clenching usually happens during sleep that makes it difficult for a patient to identify their symptoms. However, signs that you may look for includes:
The treatment for Clenching And Grinding of teeth at Santa Paula Dentist generally includes the use of night guards, a retainer-like instrument worn overnight, to prevent damage to the teeth and other oral tissues. Our Santa Paula Dentist experts are here to provide you with the best care and solutions for your clenching and grinding issues. While night guards won’t stop grinding or clenching, they are highly effective in reducing the symptoms and protecting your dental health.
Our dentists at Channel Islands Family Dental take different approaches to treat bruxism based on specific symptoms and stressors that include:
Medications: muscle relaxants can help relax the jaw muscles and prevent grinding.
Lifestyle modifications: stress management and relaxation training can be identified as a useful aid to help the patients reduce the symptoms and complications of bruxism.
Other preventive methods include:
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