There are several dental health issues that you have probably heard your whole life. They would include cavities, tooth decay, and tooth loss. And you may be familiar with procedures like root canals and teeth whitening. However, there is one issue that is not as common but can affect your oral health. It is called bruxism, and it is the grinding of your teeth. You may not even be aware that you are doing it because it happens more often at night. If you are experiencing this, your Lake Orion, MI, dentist can help by fitting you with a that you wear when you sleep.
What Is Causing Me To Grind My Teeth?
Many people clench or grind their teeth on occasion when they are stressed, angry, worried, or in pain. That is completely normal. With , though, it is consistent and uncontrollable. Stress is usually the main cause of it. Other causes, though, include alcohol and caffeine consumption, fatigue, sleep apnea, and smoking. Specific antidepressants may even cause it. Your bite could also be out of balance, which makes it a challenge for the muscles in the jaw to rest properly.
What Happens If I Do Not Treat It?
You will want to schedule an appointment with us so that we can give you a thorough examination to diagnose its cause and offer you a personalized treatment plan. If left untreated, you may experience such issues as tooth enamel erosion, , the locking or dislocation of the jaw, or damage to the interior cheek. Signs to look for that show you may grind your teeth at night include consistently waking up with a headache, ringing in your ears, or jaw pain that does not go away. When you visit us, we will also look for signs like the flattening of the tips of your teeth.
How Do I Stop It?
We can fit you with a custom-designed oral appliance. This will help . It is comfortable, and you wear it at night. There are other things you can do in your life, too, that may help lessen your experience of bruxism. For instance, talk to a healthcare provider if you suffer from anxiety or stress regularly. They can help you find solutions for those issues. Another good thing to do is to exercise, if you are able to. Some people, also, may want to look into physical therapy or muscle relaxers. Finally, consider limiting the amount of caffeine and alcohol you consume, stop smoking if you do, and avoid chewing gum.
Schedule A Consultation With Us
We want to help you stop grinding your teeth so that you can maintain good oral health. To , call Lake Orion Family Dentistry in Lake Orion, MI, today at 248-693-6213.
