When sleeping, you might clench, gnash, or grind your teeth. Grinding is a forceful contact of teeth that can cause damage. Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding is a common condition that affects a good number of adults and children. Even though grinding can happen during the day, it commonly occurs at night. Many people with this condition aren't aware of it because it happens when they are unconscious. However, there are symptoms that could help tell whether you grind your teeth when asleep. Some of them include a painful jaw, damaged teeth, and tooth sensitivity.
A Painful Jaw
When you grind your teeth, the jaw is put under excessive pressure. Given that grinding could happen throughout the night, the jaw muscles will swell; hence, a painful jaw. This condition will make it difficult to open your mouth and speak properly. You could also have problems chewing food. If you notice a painful jaw, especially in the morning, you should schedule an appointment with our professionals for treatment. If left untreated, this condition can advance to TMD.
Damaged Teeth
Another sign of grinding is damaged teeth. Grinding can flatten your teeth or cause dental chips. This happens over a prolonged period of grinding. The force applied to your teeth when grinding is excessive and could break your tooth. Therefore, when you have a chipped or broken tooth and can't remember how you got it, it could be a result of teeth grinding. In such cases, you should come in for treatment and relevant protective measures.
Tooth Sensitivity
When your tooth is damaged, you could experience tooth sensitivity. The enamel is a tough outer layer on your teeth that protects them from damage. Grinding will wear down this layer, exposing the underlying dentin that is sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. Contact us for more information on the signs of teeth grinding.
Dental Blog | Neu Family Dental | East Dundee, IL Neu Family Dental, 573 Dundee Avenue, East Dundee, IL 60118 | (847) 230-9143 | neufamilydental.com | 10/13/2024 | Related Terms: Dentist East Dundee IL |
When sleeping, you might clench, gnash, or grind your teeth. Grinding is a forceful contact of teeth that can cause damage. Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding is a common condition that affects a good number of adults and children. Even though grinding can happen during the day, it commonly occurs at night. Many people with this condition aren't aware of it because it happens when they are unconscious. However, there are symptoms that could help tell whether you grind your teeth when asleep. Some of them include a painful jaw, damaged teeth, and tooth sensitivity.