Do you grind your teeth at night? If you do so on a regular basis, then you may be experiencing a serious oral health issue known as bruxism. But why do you grind your teeth? What causes this disorder and what solutions can you offer to help?
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Grinding
Question: What issues can lead to bruxism?
Answer: The most common cause of bruxism is stress. A high level of anxiety in your day-to-day life can lead to the onset of teeth grinding. Other factors include TMJ disorder, tooth loss, misalignment, and injury to the teeth or jaw. Before treating the issue, we need to identify the exact cause and assess the extent of your grinding/clenching.
Question: When should I see a dentist?
Answer: Often, patients only grind their teeth during sleep. So, if you don’t have a significant other to take notice, you may need to be aware of the common daytime symptoms that can manifest, such as soreness in the face or jaw. Headaches, tooth sensitivity, and toothaches can also be potential warning signs. If one or more of these possible symptoms sounds familiar, then schedule a visit for a diagnosis today!
Question: What dangers can teeth grinding pose?
Answer: Without treatment, the constant pressure can wear down enamel or crack/chip a tooth, increasing the risk of decay and eventually, a serious dental infection.
Question: What solutions do you offer?
Answer: We can often address the issue with an oral appliance. The appliance is worn at night and provides a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing further damage to the teeth. We can also discuss restoration placement, orthodontic treatment, or ways to help you manage stress to alleviate your symptoms. If you have any questions, or want to receive a diagnosis, then contact our office today.
Do You Suffer from Bruxism?
At Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, we can help you stop grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw. We’ve proudly served our patients in Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
