About 10% of adults and more than twice as many children suffer from bruxism, the medical term for teeth grinding. People with bruxism often don't know they grind their teeth because it usually happens while sleeping. The purpose of this blog is to aid in the diagnosis of nocturnal teeth-grinding.
Look for the Signs
Even though teeth grinding can occur while you're asleep, you can still check for signs of the condition when awake. You might be a bruxer if:
- You have sensitive or painful teeth.
- You notice that your teeth have chips or cracks.
- Particularly after waking up, your jaw may feel tight or uncomfortable.
- Your mouth opens with a clicking sound in your jaw.
- Your temples hurt.
Visit a TMJ Dentist
You'll need a professional diagnosis unless you sleep with someone who can attest that you clench or grind your teeth in your sleep. Some of bruxism's symptoms may be hard to spot. Dr. Pine will look for signs of excessive wear and tear on the teeth throughout your examination. Tiny chips and cracks are another significant indicator of the situation.
We can get relief from the pain and protect our teeth from further wear and tear if our dentists determine that we are teeth grinders and provide professional TMJ treatment.
Speak to the Experts about Bruxism and TMJ
Constant teeth grinding during sleep has been linked to dental damage, migraines, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) diseases such as TMJ syndrome. Discovering whether you suffer from bruxism and seeking treatment before the condition worsens can spare you a lifetime of discomfort. Contact us at (949) 646-5611 to schedule an appointment.