Teeth Grinding: Symptoms and Solutions

Do you often find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth? Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a dental condition that affects millions of Americans each year. People may not even know they have bruxism because they clench or grind their teeth unconsciously in their sleep.

Those with missing teeth, crooked teeth, or an abnormal bite may be more prone to teeth clenching and grinding. Smokers and those who use tobacco products are also more likely to deal with bruxism than others.

Symptoms of Teeth Grinding

How can you tell that you have bruxism if the condition occurs unconsciously? There are some tell-tale dental problems that you may suffer from; symptoms of bruxism that may include:

  • Tooth Pain
  • Tooth Sensitivity
  • Lockjaw
  • Headaches
  • Sore Gums
  • Muscle Soreness
  • Jaw Soreness
  • Loose Teeth
  • Fractured Teeth
  • Damaged Teeth
  • Worn Teeth

Treatment

At AH Smiles, Dr. Brent Engelberg & Associates make it their goal to provide their patients with the dental care they need. There are multiple treatments AH Smiles offers for moderate to severe cases of bruxism:

Bite Correction Therapy

There are multiple ways to correct a patient’s bite. One option is for the tooth structure to be removed. Dental crowns or porcelain veneers may also be inserted in front of teeth. Implants or orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign can also be used to align teeth properly. All of these options correct a patient’s bite and protect teeth from further wear and tear from teeth clenching and grinding.

Restorative Dentistry

If a patient’s teeth have been worn down by a severe case of bruxism, crowns, veneers, or tooth bonding may be used to safeguard teeth from damage. These options also give teeth a brand new appearance and give patients whiter and brighter smiles.

Mouth Guard

Mouth guards are utilized as long-term solutions in the early steps of bruxism treatment. They alleviate the pain of bruxism and also prevent the wearing down of teeth. Mouth guards may be worn during the day or at night, when teeth clenching or grinding usually takes place.

Schedule an Appointment

If you have noticed that you are suffering from some of the symptoms of bruxism and would like to get treatment, contact us today. Call us at (847) 230-9703 or schedule an appointment with us online here.