Did you know that clenching your teeth, which is also known as bruxism, can occur while you’re sleeping or when you’re awake? Sadly, this issue can actually lead to a number of serious issues. Many people clench their teeth without realizing what they’re doing. This is especially problematic because you may clench your teeth while you’re resting.
Sadly, there are a number of issues you may have to deal with if you have bruxism. For instance, your enamel could wear down, which may leave you more vulnerable to tooth decay. Furthermore, clenching your teeth could lead to tension headaches or even migraines. Similarly, clenching your teeth could lead to chipped or fractured teeth. In fact, if you have bruxism, you could actually lose all of your teeth.
Fortunately, even though you could be clenching your teeth unwillingly, there are a few symptoms you can watch for. For instance, as a result of teeth grinding, you could face dull headaches, especially after you sleep. Your mouth and muscles may frequently feel sore. Sadly, you may also experience pain in your ear, damage to the insides of your cheeks, and even indentations on your tongue.
Still, if you have bruxism, there may be a few other things you can do to help you deal with the issue. However, because bruxism can be the result of a variety of problems, you’ll need to visit a dentist in order to enjoy the best options. One common solution is to have a custom mouth guard created. Similarly, if your bruxism is caused by misaligned teeth, realigning them may work as well.
If you’re interested in learning more about bruxism, please feel free to give Cardwell Family Dentistry at 828-631-3567. Dr. Laurin Cardwell and our team will be happy to answer any questions you may have. We’re eager to hear from you soon.