25 Feb Bruxism: Are you harming your teeth while you sleep?
Do you wake with a sore jaw? Perhaps your bed partner complains that you grind your teeth in your sleep. These are common indicators that a person has developed something called “bruxism” – the habit of grinding one’s teeth and/or clenching one’s jaw as a response to stress and anxiety. If you think you might grind your teeth in your sleep, it is important to discuss this with our dentist.
While many people brux during their waking hours, it often occurs when a person is sleeping. Bruxism during sleep is especially destructive because a person is unaware of his or her actions. Since bruxism can have a number of negative effects on your oral health, our team may recommend stress reduction techniques and the use of a nightguard to protect your teeth.
How Bruxism Effects Oral Health
Many times, our team can tell if a person is bruxing because teeth will ultimately show signs of wear during cleanings and checkups. Grinding and clenching one’s teeth eventually causes permanent damage to tooth enamel, which provides protection from cavity-causing bacteria and acid attacks. When enamel is damaged, it exposes the inner layers of teeth (that are much softer and vulnerable) to acid and bacteria.
Once enamel wears down, the rest of a tooth’s structure can become worn, too. Patients with severe and untreated bruxism often need a number of dental restorations to restore the shape and size of their teeth.
In addition to damaging teeth, bruxism contributes to TMJ disorder. The TMJ is a joint that connects the skull and lower jaw. This joint and surrounding facial muscles and ligaments work together to move the mouth in a number of positions. Bruxism causes strain to the TMJ and its supportive tissues, which can lead to reduced oral function, headaches, and orofacial pain.
Controlling Bruxism with Nightguards
One way to protect your oral health from bruxism is by wearing a nightguard. This oral appliance is custom made to fit your unique anatomy. Worn inside the mouth during sleep, a nightguard protects teeth, restorations, and prosthetics from developing damage from bruxism.
If you think you might grind or clench your teeth in your sleep, we encourage you to call our team at Aesthetic Dental Partners and schedule a consultation with our experienced dentist.