What You Need to Know About Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, occurs when the teeth are involuntary clenched or grinded together during sleep. In addition to causing jaw pain, the condition can lead to damage to the teeth, making it important to seek treatment as soon as possible. This blog post from East Bentleigh Dental Group will detail some important information about teeth grinding, including the symptoms, the causes and the available treatments.

The Symptoms

In addition to general jaw pain, there are other symptoms that may indicate you’re grinding your teeth in your sleep. These symptoms include:

• Aching teeth when waking up in the morning
• Stiffness of the face and temples
• Aching or stiff jaws when chewing
• Teeth sensitivity
• Cracked or chipped teeth
• Tooth marks on the tongue
• Loose teeth

If you notice any of the above symptoms and suspect you may be grinding your teeth, it’s vital to visit a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

The Causes

Teeth grinding can be caused by a range of different factors, including genetics, stress, and even external factors such as smoking, taking drugs and drinking caffeinated beverage. Your dentist will be able to take a look at factors in your life that may be contributing to your teeth grinding and suggest changes where applicable.

Available Treatments

Treatment for teeth grinding can take many forms, including:

• Wearing a custom mouthguard at night-time to protect the teeth
• Repairing any existing tooth damage
• Practising stress management and relaxation techniques to lower stress
• Exercising regularly
• Taking medication to relax the muscles

Get Relief from Teeth Grinding Today

If you’re seeking relief from the pain and annoyance of teeth grinding, the dentists at East Bentleigh Dental Group can provide the assistance you need. Make an appointment with us today by calling (03) 9575 1100.