We all know that sugar is bad for our teeth. Our parents have been telling us that since we were tiny children. They would warn us against eating too much candy, because it is bad for your teeth. They would warn us against drinking too many sugary treats, because sugar is bad for your teeth. Did you know that sugar is not the only thing bad for your teeth? There are other things that you don’t eat or drink that can damage your teeth, as well, and bruxing is one of them. Bruxing is the chronic grinding and clenching of your teeth, and left untreated it can lead to chipping, cracking, and more.
Don’t Damage Your Teeth
If you are aware that you grind your teeth, then you should see your dentist and bring it to their attention ASAP. Most people, however, do not know they are bruxers, because many people brux while they are sleeping. The only way they find out is if someone tells them, or if their dentist notices un-natural or premature wear on their teeth. Chronic clenching and grinding can cause:
- Your teeth to chip, crack, fracture, or break
- Loose teeth
- Sore gums
- Temporomanibular joint disorder (TMD)
- A reversed smile line (your teeth wear in an upside down “U” shape)
Symptoms Of Bruxing
If you are unaware that you are a bruxer, but you suspect that you may be, grinding and clenching can cause the following symptoms:
- Morning headaches
- Sore facial muscles
- Sore, tender, or stiff jaw joints
- Popping/clicking noises in your jaw
- Excessive tooth wear, or reversed smile line
- Overly-sensitive teeth
- Tinnitus (ringing) in your ears
- A feeling of fullness in your ear
- Sharp pains in your ears
- Achy neck and shoulders
Treatment
Treatment for bruxing usually consists of wearing a custom-made oral appliance, or mouth guard, while you sleep to keep your upper teeth from coming into contact with your lower arch. By alleviating this contact and pressure on your jaw, you can save yourself a lot of pain and headaches, literally, but also extensive dental treatment.
