The team at University Dental Arts has provided patients in the greater Denver area with the latest in advanced restorative dentistry, with a focus on improving dental health and total wellness. This approach is especially important when addressing teeth grinding (bruxism), a problem that many people experience. Let’s take a moment right now to consider the causes of tooth grinding and how it can be properly treated.
What causes tooth grinding (bruxism)?
When it comes to tooth grinding, there are two common causes:
- Stress and Anxiety – Excessive stress is a common trigger for teeth grinding. When worry runs high, it’s more likely for teeth grinding to occur.
- Poor Dental Alignment – Teeth tend to grind when the upper and lower dental arches cannot find a comfortable at-rest position.
It’s not uncommon for these two causes of tooth grinding to be simultaneously present. In fact, if you have poor dental alignment, stress can make and already existing case of tooth grinding far worse.
In order to address tooth grinding effectively, it’s important to address the root cause of the problem and take multiple approaches to minimize damage and remedy the condition.
Bite Guards – Protecting Teeth from Damage During Sleep
The use of a bite guard is very common when treating tooth grinding. A bite guard is a protective mouthpiece that is worn in order to prevent direct contact between the teeth of the upper dental arch and the teeth of the lower dental arch. By preventing contact, the stress on the teeth and jaw joint is reduced. This means less pain of the teeth and gums, and a much lower chance of tooth damage occurring.
Stress Management and Relief for Tooth Grinding (Bruxism)
While wearing a bite guard, patients may be advised to look into stress management options. This can be anything from meditation and breathing exercises, the use of anti-anxiety medications, or even involve getting more exercise to help with stress. All of these options can be discussed in greater detail during your visit.
Orthodontic Care Can Relieve Grinding
If crooked teeth and poor dental alignment are the cause of the tooth grinding, orthodontic care is a great option to consider. By improving the alignment of the teeth, patients will be less likely to suffer from tooth grinding and will also prevent potential dental health issues down the road.
TMJ Disorders and Tooth Grinding: Why There Is a Link
A TMJ disorder refers to issues with the proper function of the jaw joint (aka the temporomandibular joint). Teeth grinding is one of the causes of TMJ disorders given the stress that is placed on the jaw joint from the gnashing and clenching of the teeth. This is another risk that’s run if a case of tooth grinding isn’t treated as soon as possible.
What to Do to Address Bruxism and TMJ Disorders
Treating TMJ disorders generally involves similar steps as treating tooth grinding since these are minimally invasive yet highly effective treatments to consider. If the TMJ disorder is severe or more advanced, other treatment options can be discussed in greater detail with your dentist.
Schedule a Consultation at University Dental Arts
To learn more about treating tooth grinding and how to enhance your overall dental health, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. At University Dental Arts, we will help you get the dental treatment that you need to smile with confidence.