Teeth Grinding Treatment Reno
Treating Teeth Grinding at Its Source
Chronic teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition in which the jaw is placed under stress. This stress can cause the jaw to clench and grind against the teeth. Bruxism causes wear on the teeth as well as pain in the jaw and facial muscles. Other symptoms include earaches, headaches, and sore and sensitive teeth.
Bruxism is commonly caused when the top and bottom rows of teeth are unable to meet properly, although it can also occur due to stress, jaw injuries, and other underlying issues. This could be due to problems with the alignment of the bite or the shape and structure of the jaw and skull. A misaligned bite can cause the teeth to grind against each other in an attempt to find the proper alignment. This constant motion can wear down and destroy tooth enamel. Over time, it can cause severe damage to both the structure of the teeth and the health of surrounding tissues, such as the gums.
In some cases, an orthodontist can be able to provide a simple treatment to help correct the alignment of the bite. For example, a retainer can be used to prevent the upper and lower jaws from shifting back into their proper positions during sleep. Orthodontists are also capable of conducting a thorough evaluation to determine if a more invasive surgical procedure is required to correct the distortion. Options for teeth grinding treatment in Reno may include adjusting the position of the maxillary bones by means of orthodontic treatment, oral surgery, or both.
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Who Is at Risk of Teeth Grinding?
People who grind their teeth are most commonly in their late teens and early 20s, but it affects people of all ages. Chronic teeth grinding is commonly associated with anxiety and stress, but it can also develop due to misaligned or improperly spaced teeth, bite problems, or crookedness. Those who suffer from bruxism tend to clench their jaws together throughout sleep, which can take a toll on the muscles and joints of the jaw over time, leading to wear and tear.
Bruxism can cause significant damage to the teeth and gums if left untreated, so it’s important to visit your dentist if you’re experiencing any symptoms related to this condition. Your dentist will be able to determine the cause of the problem and create a treatment plan that will alleviate the symptoms of bruxism and protect your smile from further damage.
How Is Teeth Grinding Diagnosed?
Dentists will closely examine your teeth for signs of wear and tear, such as chips and cracks. If your jaw muscles are sore, the dentist may order X-rays to check for damage to the jawbone and temporomandibular joints (TMJ). If necessary, you may be referred to a specialist for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
TMJ disorders are often misdiagnosed as other conditions. For example, patients with unilateral facial pain may be incorrectly diagnosed as having trigeminal neuralgia or migraines. Without proper treatment, these headaches can worsen over time and cause permanent damage to the joint and surrounding facial muscles. During your appointment, ask your dentist if you’re at risk for TMD and if you should see a specialist.
Treatment for Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding has several potential causes, including sleep apnea, anxiety, or an abnormal bite. Certain medications and certain types of behavior may also cause it. In any case, the effects can be severe.
The constant pressure put on your teeth can result in fractures, loosening of fillings, and even tooth loss. Over time, bruxism can also lead to jaw pain, headaches, and other painful conditions. Fortunately, there are several ways to address this problem.
One of the most common treatment options is an oral appliance (also known as a nightguard). This custom-made device fits over your teeth and prevents them from contacting each other during sleep, reducing jaw pain, stopping rapid wear-and-tear of your molars, and preserving your oral health.
Another option is to restore damaged teeth with a dental crown. A crown completely covers a damaged tooth. It prevents the enamel from chipping away and protects the roots of the tooth as well. Crowns can be used to hold together cracked or damaged teeth and to restore the appearance of your smile.