Bruxism Can Lead to Significant Oral Health Complications

Some people are prone to clenching their jaw muscles and grinding their teeth subconsciously or while they sleep. This chronic condition, which is also known as bruxism can lead to oral health complications.

Over time, the excessive force applied to the surfaces of your teeth can potentially chip or fracture your tooth enamel. While it is more likely to occur with molars and premolars, the teeth in the front of the mouth can also suffer a dental fracture. Once the tooth enamel has been damaged, the result can be increasing tooth sensitivity and tooth decay. If you have a chipped or fractured tooth you need to have it examined as soon as possible by our dentist, Dr. Alex Osovsky. Possible treatment options might involve a dental filling, or a dental crown.

You should also keep in mind that unaddressed bruxism can start to affect the temporomandibular joints that hinge your jaw. It can lead to tension and inflammation related to chronic night grinding. Initial symptoms of TMJ disorder might include a persistent pain or dull ache around the temples and muscles in front of your ears. In some cases of chronic bruxism, sleeping with a dental guard in your mouth can help minimize complications. It is a mouthpiece can be worn in your mouth to help protect your teeth from damage while reducing the stress on your temporomandibular joints.

If you live in the Buffalo Grove, Illinois, area and you have been struggling to deal with chronic night grinding, you should call 847-465-9676 to schedule an appointment at Dental Esthetics of Buffalo Grove.