Has your spouse been complaining about the noise of you grinding your teeth at night? Unfortunately, it can be more serious than a nuisance for people trying to sleep; it can also lead to tooth damage and painful joint issues. But what can you do about something that happens while you’re asleep? Here’s what you need to know about teeth grinding, its effects, and how mouthguards in Weatherford can help.
Why Do I Grind My Teeth at Night?
Bruxism – the medical term for grinding teeth at night – can sometimes occur due to stress or anxiety. It can also be caused by a structural problem in the mouth, such as an abnormal bite or crooked teeth. Occasionally, it may be the side effect of a more serious sleep disorder like sleep apnea.
What Problems Can Grinding Teeth Cause?
Over time, grinding can wear down, flatten, chip, or fracture your teeth; eventually you could require dentures or other forms of tooth replacement. In the meantime, you may suffer from chronic facial pain, earache, headache, and muscle tightness.
Bruxism can also lead to a TMJ disorder. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is what connects your lower jaw to the rest of your head. When there’s a problem with it, it can cause pain while chewing, lockjaw, clicking or popping when opening the mouth, and other issues; you’ll want to seek TMJ therapy in Weatherford as soon as possible.
How Can Mouthguards Help with Teeth Grinding?
In many cases, a simple oral appliance can help with bruxism and TMJ disorder. Your dentist may suggest wearing a mouthguard at night to act as a barrier between your teeth to prevent them from wearing each other down. As a side benefit, it can also cut down on the noise caused by grinding. Mouthguards can be purchased over the counter, but it most likely won’t fit as well as one that’s been custom-fitted by the dentist.
Sometimes a special kind of mouthguard called an occlusal splint is used. It shifts the jaw into a new position, allowing muscles agitated in TMJ disorder to relax and heal.
If you suspect that you’re grinding your teeth at night, make an appointment with your dentist in Weatherford; they can examine your teeth and jaw to identify the telltale signs and prescribe an appropriate treatment. Remember: teeth grinding and TMJ disorders can be inconvenient, but they’re not an inconvenience you have to live with!
About the Author
Dr. Thomas J. Novak served in the US Navy Dental Corps for five years and earned the honor of “Top Doc.” At his practice, he strives to provide a lively atmosphere and quick, efficient treatment for the entire family. He can custom-fit mouthguards and occlusal splints for patients with bruxism and TMJ disorders. To schedule an appointment, visit his practice’s website or call (817) 594-7302.