Do you grind your teeth? Are you sure? Oftentimes, teeth grinding, or bruxism, occurs during the night, when people are completely unaware of the damage they are inflicting on their teeth. There are, however, a few symptoms that may reveal whether or not bruxism is occurring. To learn more about these symptoms, consult the following list provided by your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith.
Four Symptoms of Bruxism
1. Sensitive teeth. Sensitivities in teeth can be a very big clue that bruxism is occurring during the night, especially if teeth are sensitive in the morning and if the sensitivities are recurring. The strain that bruxism places on teeth is significant and often creates soreness or tenderness.
2. A sore jaw. Teeth are not the only things subjected to strain. The jaw also feels the forces of bruxism, and oftentimes, a sore jaw will develop if bruxism becomes a habit. This soreness is sometimes accompanied by a popping or clicking noise when the mouth is opened and closed.
3. Visible wear on teeth. Over time, bruxism can strip teeth of their enamel and actually wear down teeth. When this situation occurs, the wear will become visible, and a dental professional will be able to see the damage.
4. Frequent headaches. Over a prolonged period of time, the forces of bruxism can cause what is known as a TMJ disorder. The TMJs are the jaw joints responsible for opening and closing the mouth, and when they develop a disorder, the symptoms can be seriously debilitating. Some of these symptoms include frequent headaches, migraines, facial pain, earaches, jaw pain, and a locked jaw. Thus, if you notice that you are suffering from frequent headaches, the culprit could be bruxism.
Schedule a Dental Visit with Your Grand Prairie Dentist
If you grind your teeth, it is important that you receive treatment for your bruxism. Contact our 75052 dental office to schedule an appointment or a consultation with your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Smith, today by calling 972-262-5111. We welcome patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.
