Modern life moves fast, and stress levels are rising. Increased stress and anxiety levels are some of the primary causes of patients clenching and grinding their teeth (bruxism). Lifestyle factors like alcohol and caffeine consumption and sleep disorders, such as sleep apnoea, can also contribute to bruxism.
Worse yet, because teeth grinding and clenching typically take place at night, many patients don't even realise they're suffering from bruxism until the damage is already done. Here's what you should know about bruxism and how we treat it at Be Well Dental.
What Are the Signs of Bruxism?
Tooth clenching and grinding can be hard to identify on your own since it typically takes place at night, which is why routine visits with your dentist are critical for monitoring your dental health. Your dentist can spot the signs of bruxism before it causes more damage to your smile and oral health. Some of the signs of bruxism are:
- Pain or tenderness when you bite or chew
- Ear pain
- Tooth sensitivity to sweets or temperature
- Cracks or 'craze' lines on your teeth
- Worn enamel exposing dentin (the yellow inner layer of your tooth)
- Frequent headaches, especially in the morning
- Face or neck pain
What Causes Tooth Grinding?
The causes of bruxism vary greatly depending on each patient's situation. Some of the common factors that can contribute to it are:
- Bite misalignment
- Stress or anxiety
- Muscle tension
- Sleep disorders, like sleep apnoea
- Certain medications
Some people experience multiple factors that cause their bruxism. Once our dentists determine the cause of your bruxism, they can make the proper treatment recommendations for your needs. Treatment recommendations may include orthodontics, a custom oral appliance, stress management techniques, therapeutic injections or orofacial myofacial therapy.
Contact our team on (07) 3846 2002 for more information about bruxism treatment in Highgate Hill.