How Tooth Grinding Can Damage Your Smile

What is Tooth Grinding?

Tooth grinding (or bruxism in doctor-speak) is a common behavior among men and women of all ages. It is when a person involuntarily clenches their jaw or rubs their teeth together. Tooth grinding can transpire during the day or night and can affect kids and adults. Some individuals grind their teeth intermittently when they are going through periods of unusual stress. For other individuals, it becomes a habit over a period of time.

Regardless of the cause, tooth grinding can be painful and damaging to your smile. It can also have a long-term influence on physical and mental health.

The Dangers of Teeth Grinding

It can bring about loose teeth
It can cause physical pain in the teeth or face
- Headaches
- Jaw pain
- Ear pain
- Tooth pain
It can chip teeth
It can wear down the enamel
It can cause issues with the alignment of the bite

Tips/Ways to Help Stop Grinding Your Teeth

Wear a mouthguard to bed
Botox (injections of Botox into the jaw muscles can prevent the muscles from contracting in some people)
Biofeedback
Physical therapy
Stress relief exercises
Avoid caffeine
Avoid alcohol

Resources to Help Stop Grinding Your Teeth

Talk to DoctorColeman about a custom night guard or splint
Talk to your primary care physician about possible underlying medical factors
Talk to a sleep medicine specialist
Consult with a medical professional who is experienced in using Botox to treat medical conditions–these include dermatologists, cosmetic surgeons, TMD specialists, and some dentists

If you grind your teeth, we invite you to set up a consultation with Doctor Coleman. We can discuss creating a custom nightguard to help protect your teeth. We can also refer you to other professionals that can help you overcome the underlying reason.

Do You Already Have Tooth Damage from Bruxism?

If you have already damaged your teeth, let’s discuss options for correcting the dilemmas. These might include porcelain veneers, dental bonding, or full crowns to shield against further damage.