When some people sleep at night, they unconsciously grind or clench their jaw. When this occurs, it can lead to aches and pains during the morning, and cause a heightened risk for painful TMJ problems. Over time, it can also lead to worrying dental damage. This problem, known as bruxism, is something that your Prairie Village, KS dentist can help with. You can discuss your concerns about teeth grinding during a routine dental checkup, or make an appointment to share your concerns over this tendency. If you choose to ignore the matter, it can be costly to your appearance and oral health. People who grind their teeth without treatment can wind up with visible wear and tear on teeth, or even serious chips and cracks in their enamel!
Bruxism Can Be A Harmful Problem If It Is Not Treated
While our teeth are strong, the force generated by your jaw when you grind or clench is also considerable. Over time, the gradual wear and tear caused by bruxism can become a cosmetic concern. You may notice that your teeth appear misshapen, flat, or otherwise changed. If the matter goes on further, you can wind up with chips or cracks in teeth that call for restorative dental work!
Addressing Pain From Grinding And TMJ Disorder
Our practice has experience working with people who are affected by teeth grinding, including those who have connected concerns with TMJ disorder. We can provide you with a custom appliance that you can wear every night while you sleep in order to stop you from grinding your teeth. When in place, it keeps your upper and lower teeth apart, and it can reduce the jaw strain that grinding and clenching can create. We also provide oral appliances to help with the discomfort that TMJ disorder can cause. Problems linked to TMJ disorder include headaches, facial pain, and difficulties with natural jaw movement.
Restoring Teeth Damaged By Persistent Grinding
If your teeth look less attractive because of persistent grinding or chewing, porcelain veneers can help. Veneers are placed on the fronts of teeth, and they help with concerns you might have about their shape, size, or general condition. If problems with teeth grinding have affected your oral health, we may recommend having dental crowns placed over teeth instead of moving forward with cosmetic work. Crowns are able to provide bite support in addition to restoring the way you look, and they can protect vulnerable teeth from further harm.
Talk To Your Prairie Village, KS Dentist About Nightly Teeth Grinding
At our Prairie Village, KS dentist’s office, Dr. Browne is prepared to help individuals who are struggling with nightly teeth grinding. In addition to protecting you from further harm, we can discuss treatment for teeth that show signs of wear and tear. To find out more, contact our Prairie Village, KS dental office today at 913-901-8585.
