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Statistics show that nearly every one in four dental patients suffers from a form of bruxism, which is the clenching or grinding of teeth. While varying in intensity, grinding or clenching teeth must be addressed quickly, as a range of dental and muscle effects arise if left untreated.
Grinding your teeth causes stress on the muscles which may result in painful dental related effects such headaches, muscle tension, sensitivity, jaw pain and/or imbalances, as well as possible stress fractures in the teeth.
While the causes of grinding and clenching differs with each individual person, some of the most common causes that we see are due in part to:
- Eye strain
- Eyeglasses
- Stress
- Sinus infection
- Anxiety
- Disturbed sleep pattern
- Caffeine withdrawals
- Digestive problems
- Changes in weather
- Exertion
- Hormonal change
- Headbands
Treatment can be as simple as a change in diet or reducing stress. It is not uncommon for a patient to require a night-guard in order to prevent clenching or grinding.
While occasional grinding may not cause harm, grinding on a regular basis result in damage to the teeth. If you experience any of the following symptoms on a regular basis, it may be a sign that you are grinding or clenching your teeth in your sleep:
- Frequent headaches
- Earaches
- Sore teeth, gums, jaw, and/or face
- Tips of teeth appear flat
- Indentations in tongue from clenching
Regular visits to the dentist are the best way to resolve clenching or grinding before it becomes a more complicated problem. If you feel that you may be grinding your teeth or are overdue for a dental exam, contact Drs. Chin Dentistry at (702) 445-7075 to schedule your Las Vegas dentistry appointment today!