Do you experience headaches, jaw pain, or have teeth that appear worn or damaged?
Many adults grind their teeth unknowingly during sleep or when under stress. It is even common for athletes during intense play. For most, it is a natural reaction to stress, but it can also be a result of a more serious dental condition.
Teeth grinding can create complex dental problems over time and is often a symptom of an underlying bite or TMJ-related problem. The key to treatment that is lasting and effective is to identify the cause before treating the symptoms.
Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding can impact patients of all ages, sometimes going unnoticed until they come in for a visit with us. Do you experience the following common symptoms?
- frequent headaches
- ear pain, ringing in the ears
- jaw pain, tired jaws
- clicking or popping of the jaw joints
- difficulty chewing properly
- irritated gums or insides of the cheek
Teeth grinding also wears down the tooth enamel and can change the surface of the teeth over time. Patients can be at an increased risk for tooth damage, cracked teeth, and even tooth loss. Teeth grinding also increases muscle tension in the jaw joints, or TMJ, and can play a role in bite disorders.
Treatment for Teeth Grinding
Dr. Rafat and Dr. Izadi have extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of teeth grinding. Addressing bruxism is important to avoid eventual damage to your teeth and gums and tooth loss.
Drs. Rafat and Izadi look for the common signs of teeth grinding during routine dental care visits. Tell-tale signs of teeth grinding are worn teeth and damage to the soft tissues in your mouth. Our dentists will evaluate the function and position of your bite to determine the cause of your bruxism and to recommend the most suitable treatment options. Learn about the most common treatment options for bruxism below.
Mouthguards or night guards
The most conservative and often recommended treatment for teeth grinding is the use of a custom oral appliance, night guard, or mouthguard. Made to fit snugly over the teeth, an oral appliance is designed to facilitate natural jaw position and tooth contact.
The type of oral appliance you receive depends on the severity of your teeth grinding habits and the current state of your oral health.
Restorative dentistry
To address tooth damage, worn teeth, or to make adjustments in how they come into contact when biting down, we may use restorative dental procedures. Restorative dentistry options may include tooth bonding, dental crowns, dental bridges, or tooth fillings.
Orthodontics
Braces may be considered necessary if the malocclusion is the cause of your teeth grinding and related bite problems. Severely crooked teeth can contribute to bad teeth grinding habits, so sometimes an orthodontic plan is necessary to save your teeth from further damage.
After a thorough evaluation, we will create a plan of treatment that can provide comfortable, lasting results and restore your oral health. The goal of your treatment is to relieve discomfort, align the bite if needed, and to stop bruxism at the source. A healthy, stable bite will support your dental health for the long run and provide a beautiful, comfortable smile.
Teeth Grinding FAQs
Teeth grinding breaks down your teeth, leaving them more vulnerable to other oral health issues. Learn more below.
How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
Many people do not realize they grind their teeth because it happens while they are asleep. Common signs include morning jaw soreness, headaches, tooth sensitivity, worn-down teeth, or chipped enamel. A partner may also notice grinding or clenching sounds during the night. Your dentist can look for patterns of tooth wear and other signs that may indicate nighttime bruxism.
What causes teeth grinding?
Teeth grinding can have several possible causes, including stress, anxiety, an uneven bite, and certain sleep-related conditions. Lifestyle factors such as caffeine and alcohol consumption may also contribute to nighttime grinding. Some medications have also been associated with bruxism. Because there is not always one clear cause, your dentist may consider several factors when evaluating your symptoms.
Can teeth grinding damage my teeth?
Yes, frequent teeth grinding can gradually damage your teeth. Repeated pressure can wear down the enamel, causing teeth to become shorter, flatter, or more sensitive. Strong grinding may also contribute to cracks, chips, or broken dental restorations. Treating bruxism early can help protect your teeth from additional damage.
Can teeth grinding cause problems with dental crowns or fillings?
Excessive grinding can place additional stress on dental restorations such as crowns, fillings, bridges, and veneers. Over time, this pressure may contribute to chips, cracks, loosening, or premature wear. If you have a history of bruxism, your dentist may recommend protecting your restorations with a nightguard. Regular dental visits can also help identify signs of damage before they become more serious.
Can teeth grinding cause headaches?
Teeth grinding can contribute to headaches, particularly headaches that occur when you wake up. Clenching places repeated strain on the muscles around your jaw, temples, and face. This tension can sometimes lead to pain or pressure in these areas. If you regularly wake up with headaches or jaw discomfort, talk with your dentist about whether bruxism could be contributing to your symptoms.
Can teeth grinding cause tooth sensitivity?
Teeth grinding can contribute to tooth sensitivity by wearing down the protective enamel that covers your teeth. As enamel becomes thinner, the more sensitive layers underneath may become exposed. You may notice discomfort when eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet, or acidic. Your dentist can determine whether grinding is contributing to your sensitivity and recommend appropriate treatment.
How is teeth grinding treated?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your teeth grinding. Your dentist may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your teeth while you sleep and reduce the effects of grinding. Other approaches may include addressing contributing factors, managing stress, or treating related dental problems. Your dentist can develop a treatment plan based on your symptoms and the amount of tooth wear present.