Bruxism, commonly called teeth grinding, occurs when a person applies pressure, gnashing, or force on the teeth. The grinding of teeth is dangerous because it can damage the tooth and create pain, including intense teeth grinding headache that’s hard to stop. Though teen grinding in sleep is most common, it can also happen during the day. At Lovett Dental Sugar Land in Texas, our team can help. Contact our team today at 281-759-5900 to learn more about our services.

Signs of Teeth Grindingwoman struggles with teeth grinding

Often, those who engage in the grinding of teeth don’t know they are doing it. Some of the most common signs of bruxism include:

  • Waking up with an awful headache
  • Others may hear teeth grinding in sleep
  • Pain in the jaw and roots of the tooth
  • Dulling of the tops of the teeth, often noticed by a dentist
  • The pressure felt in the gums and face

If you think this could be happening, reach out to a dentist. Continuing to grind teeth leads to damage that is difficult to reverse. Treatment options are available to help.

Teeth Grinding in Sleep Causes

Many people grind their teeth without realizing they are doing so. At night, it may be due to a condition in which a person wakes up numerous times a night without realizing it. The brain wakes up just enough to open the airway to allow proper breathing. This condition is called sleep apnea and typically occurs when tissues block the airway and prevent standard breathing patterns at night. This can sometimes cause teeth grinding.

Other Causes of Grinding of Teeth

Sometimes people grind their teeth when stressed. It becomes a habit that’s hard to break. Most often, this happens in intense situations or when a person isn’t paying attention to it.

It’s also possible to grind teeth as a result of pain. If there is a tooth infection or gum damage present, that pain could lead to grinding. It may be a habit used to reduce some discomfort, similar to clenching hands during painful situations.

How Is Teeth Grinding Treated?

When you see a dentist in Texas, the first step is to examine the extensiveness of the damage present. Let the dental care provider know about any symptoms, including a teeth grinding headache, pain in the jaw area, or trouble with the TMJ, the joint that helps the mouth open and close.

Once they understand what’s happening, the dentist may offer recommendations such as:

  • Using a nighttime guard between the teeth to prevent damage from grinding
  • Applications placed into the mouth to prevent sleep apnea
  • Other types of treatment for sleep apnea
  • Resolving any existing infections or causes of tooth pain
  • Working to reduce stressful situations

When the damage from bruxism is significant, it may be necessary to take advanced measures to repair it. After stopping the teeth grinding from further damaging the teeth, the next step is to consider repairing that damage. This may involve the use of crowns to cover the tooth to safeguard it. If there’s extensive damage to the gums or root from extensive grinding, tooth extractions may be necessary. This is rarely necessary.

There are ways to improve damage caused by tooth grinding, but they require consistent care. Be sure to come in to see the dentist at least one time every six months to ensure the problem does not worsen and that proper care is in place for long-term improvement.

Expect Solutions When You Call Lovett Dental Sugar Land

Grinding of teeth is a damaging action capable of leading to pain and tooth loss. Teeth grinding solutions are available. Schedule a consultation with Lovett Dental Sugar Land in Texas to discuss bruxism. Find a solution that is right for you. Call our office at 281-759-5900 or connect with us online now.