A General Dentist Answers Teeth Grinding FAQs

Visiting a general dentist regularly is crucial for your oral health. Your dentist has the knowledge and training to diagnose, treat, and prevent various conditions. You may think of this person most as someone who helps with cavities, gum disease, and cosmetic issues. But your dentist can also address challenges such as teeth grinding. If you struggle with this condition, you can ask your dentist how to effectively handle it.

A brief description

The clenching of teeth, known as bruxism, is not uncommon. It can occur in people of all ages. Occasionally doing this is not a cause for alarm, but when a person does it regularly, it can have consequences on the individual’s health. Teeth grinding generally occurs during the night when a person is asleep, but other people do it throughout the day, sometimes without realizing it. A general dentist can treat the effects of bruxism and help the patient to stop the habit.

Why do people grind their teeth?

There are various reasons why a person has the habit of teeth grinding. Often, it is because of nervousness or anxiety, similar to when a person bites their fingernails or chews on a pen. People with sleep apnea may also have teeth-grinding problems. It is also frequently a symptom of having crooked teeth or an abnormal bite.

What are the results of teeth grinding?

The grinding of teeth can have a negative impact on the way teeth look and function. Teeth can wear down by doing this. A person may also have chipped, broken, or loose teeth because of bruxism. Persisting in this habit could lead to jaw pain or conditions such as TMJ. The shape of the patient’s face could also change. Only treatment from a general dentist can help overcome these problems.

How does a patient know that teeth grinding is happening?

Because this habit is typical during the night, some people do not even know they are doing it. However, over time, the symptoms of bruxism will manifest. It can be difficult to open and close the mouth after continued teeth grinding. The person may have a headache or pain throughout the mouth. Teeth can appear or feel worn down too.

How will the general dentist treat bruxism?

Seeing the dentist is a good option to treat teeth grinding and prevent severe oral health conditions. The dentist will first examine and patient and determine what approaches make the most sense. For many patients, wearing a mouthguard at night will stop the teeth grinding. If stress or anxiety are the causes of the habit, the dentist may counsel the patient and discuss what issues are causing these feelings. If the teeth grinding has damaged the patient’s teeth, the general dentist may have to use fillings, crowns, or veneers to repair them.