Bruxism: Teeth Grinding Symptoms and Prevention

Do you ever wake up in the mornings with soreness or slight discomfort in your teeth and jaws? This is one of the tell-tale signs of teeth grinding (also known as bruxism.)

Teeth grinding can show up at almost any age and although it typically occurs unconsciously during sleep, it is not uncommon for someone to grind their teeth throughout the day, as well. If you are trying very hard to concentrate or under a lot of stress, you may clench your jaw to get through whatever task is at hand.

Symptoms of Teeth Grinding

Headaches are the number one symptom of bruxism. You may also suffer from muscle aches or stiffness in your shoulders, neck, or facial muscles. Of course, your teeth will be affected too. You may not recognize it on your own, but teeth begin to show abnormal wear and more limited mobility the longer your teeth grinding goes untreated. Luckily our dentists at Charlotte Emergency Dental will recognize affected teeth quickly and will be able to help you diagnose the cause and come up with an individualized treatment plan.

Common Causes and Treatments

According to the Bruxism Association, most people affected by teeth grinding find it is due to feeling high levels of stress or anxiety and sleeping disorders. People who snore or suffer from sleep apnea tend to grind their teeth while they sleep, as well. Smoking, increased alcohol consumption, and even drinking caffeine have also been found to be contributing factors.

Before determining treatment for your specific case of bruxism, it is important to schedule a visit with a dental professional who can perform a comprehensive oral exam. Our dentists will help pinpoint your cause, or causes, of teeth grinding to help eliminate this negativity from your day-to-day. We will then get you fitted with a custom mouth piece, often referred to as a brux guard, and looks similar to a retainer, for your top and bottom teeth that will protect your teeth AND your jaw muscles. In order to really see improvement in wear and tear or headaches and joint pain, it is best to wear both of your brux guards every night while you sleep.

See Charlotte Emergency Dental for Help!

If you think you may be grinding your teeth at night, or recognize some of these symptoms and causes of teeth grinding in your life, visit us on Park Road today so that our doctors can help determine whether a brux guard is right for you! Interested in learning more about brux guards and teeth grinding? Read about our brux guard services HERE or call us at 704-525-3939 to discuss your symptoms with one of our dental specialists.