Are You Grinding Your Teeth? Here's Why You Should Stop
Jun 02, 2024
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a common issue that many people experience, often without even realizing it. In fact, up to 30% of adults grind their teeth when awake, while roughly 16% do so while sleeping. It’s an unconscious habit that can happen during times of stress or anxiety.
While it may seem harmless, teeth grinding can lead to oral health problems if left unaddressed. Here at Llanos Dental Group, Dr. Laura Llanos, specializes in diagnosing and treating bruxism, with a goal of helping our patients protect their teeth and oral health.
An abnormal bite is a common cause of teeth grinding. Your bite refers to the way your upper and lower teeth fit together when your mouth is closed.
Misaligned teeth that don’t meet properly, known as a malocclusion, can affect your bite. An overbite occurs when the upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth, while an underbite happens when the lower teeth protrude past the upper teeth. When the upper teeth sit behind or inside the lower teeth, it’s called a crossbite.
Other potential causes of teeth grinding include stress, certain medications, a genetic predisposition, and specific medical conditions.
Bruxism can affect your oral health over time. Persistent grinding can wear down your teeth, making them vulnerable to further damage. The added force on your teeth can lead to chips, cracks, and even loosening teeth. Bruxism can also cause teeth to wear unevenly.
Additionally, the strain from grinding can affect your temporomandibular joints (TMJ), the hinge joints that enable smooth mouth movement. Constant stress on these joints can cause jaw and facial pain and may eventually alter your facial structure.
Teeth grinding can also erode tooth enamel, cause gum recession, increase tooth sensitivity, cause frequent headaches, trigger ear pain, and interfere with getting a good night’s sleep.
One of the most effective ways to address a malocclusion is with Invisalign®. By aligning your teeth properly, you can reduce the likelihood of grinding. Invisalign aligners are a popular choice because they’re clear, removable, and more convenient than traditional braces.
A nighttime mouthguard is another option. A mouthguard acts as a protective barrier, cushioning your teeth and preventing them from grinding against each other. Dr. Llanos can prescribe a customized mouthguard tailored to your individual dental structure, taking a mold of your mouth to ensure a perfect fit.
Putting some stress management techniques in place is beneficial when stress is a factor. Reducing your intake of caffeine, avoiding alcohol, and practicing bruxism-specific exercises can also help reduce grinding.
Teeth grinding is more than just an annoying habit; it can lead to serious dental issues, so it’s best not to ignore it. Dr. Llanos is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for bruxism, from diagnosing the condition to implementing personalized treatment plans.
If you notice you’re clenching your jaw, you suspect you may be grinding your teeth overnight, or you’ve been diagnosed with bruxism, our team can help. Contact Llanos Dental Group at our Miami Lakes, Florida, office to schedule an appointment and take a proactive step toward maintaining your oral health.