Teeth grinding can become a significant problem if the cause is not uncovered in a timely fashion. Once the cause is known, a nightguard can protect your teeth from further damage. Dr. Ria Sahara, from Gentle Dentistry of Newnan PC, can help her patients prevent damage to their teeth by fitting them with a dental night guard. This helps to prevent teeth grinding, which can lead to permanent damage and possible tooth loss. If you or a family member grind your teeth, a visit to the dentist should be in your future.
Excessive stress
One of the most common causes of teeth grinding is high-stress levels. Excessive stress can cause long-term health problems. One way the body handles stress is by grinding the teeth. Finding ways to release stress will allow your body to relax during sleep and minimize the urge to grit or grind your teeth.
Panic or anxiety issues
Panic and anxiety are also common causes of teeth grinding. They can also result in nightmares where you may bite your tongue or the insides of your cheeks. If you have difficulty controlling your anxiety, you may want to visit your doctor. Using a nightguard while you sleep will prevent damage to your teeth, but it won’t stop your anxiety from disrupting your sleep.
Dislocated jaw
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can exert significant pressure on the jaw, leading to the risk of a dislocated jaw. This intense, repetitive motion can strain the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge connecting the jaw to the skull, potentially causing it to move out of its proper alignment. Over time, the continuous force applied by bruxism wears down the teeth and can destabilize the jaw’s position, increasing the likelihood of dislocation. This highlights the importance of addressing bruxism early, not only to protect dental health but also to prevent more severe jaw-related issues.
Damaged or broken teeth
Damaged or broken teeth can also disrupt your bite pattern. When you sleep, this can result in bruxism. Any time you notice a tooth broken or damaged, schedule a visit with your dentist. Dr. Sahara will be able to locate the problem and repair your teeth so that your natural bite pattern can be re-established.
Neurological disorders
Neurological disorders can also cause teeth grinding. The grinding may be mild initially but can steadily progress if your condition worsens. Contact your dentist immediately when there is the first sign of teeth bruxism or other behaviors. They can provide a nightguard to protect your teeth until your other health conditions can be controlled.
Medications
Certain medications can also result in teeth-grinding episodes. If you notice teeth grinding and have recently started a new medication, contact Dr. Ria Sahara of Gentle Dentistry of Newnan PC immediately. She can fit you with a nightguard that will minimize your teeth grinding and prevent further damage to your teeth.
If you live in or near Newnan, call to schedule your appointment immediately! Call (770) 683-6030 if you are a new patient, and existing patients will need to call (770) 683-6030.
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