Bruxism
Teeth Grinding and Clenching
Bruxism Campbelltown
When you clench, grind, or gnash your teeth, it is called bruxism.
When you have bruxism, you could unintentionally clench or grind your teeth while you’re awake (awake bruxism) or while you’re asleep (sleep bruxism).
What Causes Bruxism?
Bruxism may go undetected until symptoms become prominent. Even those who regularly grind and clench their teeth may not know the signs.
The following things could potentially cause bruxism:
- Aggressive character
- Anger and frustration
- Tight teeth clenching or grinding
- Having trouble managing stress
- Competitiveness
- Frustration and rage
- Diet
- Posture
- Sleeping habits
Types of Bruxism
The two main types of bruxism are awake and asleep.
Awake bruxism
Sleep bruxism
Signs of Bruxism
Teeth become pretty sensitive when dentine is exposed. Your teeth’ tips are beginning to flatten if you frequently clench or grind them. You risk having severely worn-down teeth. As a result, the dentin, or the tooth’s interior, is exposed. Additionally, patients may experience inflammation in their TMJ, which may cause their jaw to twitch or crack.
Additional signs include:
- Earache
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Tongue indentations
Occlusal Splints
An occlusal splint is a detachable dental appliance custom-made to fit upper or lower dental arches. It is typically worn while you sleep.
The main goal of using an occlusal splint is to put a barrier between the surfaces of the teeth that are used for biting and grinding, shielding them from wear and damage.
Occlusal splints are available in a range of styles, such as soft or rigid, full or partial, and those for the upper or lower jaw. Your Campbelltown dentist will recommend the material and design that will alleviate your situation most while considering your preferences.
Bruxism Management in Campbelltown
If undetected and untreated, bruxism will result in long-term dental wear and damage, necessitating additional restorative procedures to correct the damage.
As a result, the diagnosis needs to be made as soon as possible. Contact us to schedule an appointment if you or a family member thinks they may be a bruxer.
At Marketfair Dental Care, we treat all our patients as we would our families by using the most appropriate and cost-effective solutions.
Visit your Campbelltown dentist today!
Call (02) 4620 0800 or request your appointment online. We are located at Marketfair Campbelltown Shop 21B, 4 Tindall St in Campbelltown.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I stop teeth from grinding?
- Get enough rest.
- Reduce the amount of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages.
- Take part in more relaxed pursuits (meditation, exercise and counselling)
- Perform muscle-relaxation exercises.
How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
- Changes in facial appearance
- Complaints from your bed partner
- Pain in the jaws
- Unexplained damage to teeth
- Waking up with a headache