Bruxism, or sometimes referred to as teeth grinding, can affect the function and health of your teeth, gums, and jaw. Addressing teeth grinding can help prevent further damage.
Although there is no singular cause for teeth grinding, an experienced dentist can perform specialized testing to understand the root cause of teeth grinding. Studies suggest that teeth grinding is commonly caused by stress, bite disorders, or crooked or misaligned teeth.
Dr. Justin Deckard offers comprehensive solutions for patients who grind their teeth. Dr. Deckard can work with you to create a treatment to eliminate teeth grinding, address any damage to the teeth and gums, and prevent future issues associated with teeth grinding.
TMJ & Teeth Grinding
Most patients don’t realize they grind their teeth until they visit the dentist. Teeth grinding can cause symptoms such as headaches, facial pain, jaw pain, worn or damaged teeth, and chipped teeth. Teeth grinding can also affect your bite, which may require advanced treatment.
Patients who grind their teeth often develop a TMJ-related disorder or TMD. The temporomandibular joint, or commonly referred to as the TMJ, connects the lower jaw to the skull. When there is added stress on the temporomandibular joint, patients may experience uncomfortable, sometimes painful symptoms. Dr. Deckard can work with patients to determine if they have developed a complex bite disorder and recommend the appropriate treatment needed to alleviate their symptoms and improve oral health.
Treatment Options For Teeth Grinding
Dr. Deckard offers comprehensive, personalized solutions for patients suffering from teeth grinding. Some patients may need a combination of treatments to create a treatment plan that is best-suited for their specific needs.
- Oral sleep appliance: An oral sleep appliance is custom-designed to fit your smile. An oral sleep appliance can prevent the teeth from clenching and grinding while you sleep.
- Invisalign: For patients with crooked or misaligned teeth, Invisalign is an ideal solution to realign your smile. Dr. Deckard is a Washington, DC Invisalign provider.
- Restorative Dentistry: For advanced cases of teeth grinding, Dr. Deckard may recommend restorative dentistry to restore function and health to the smile. Your treatment may include dental crowns or tooth bonding. If any teeth need to be extracted, Dr. Deckard offers dental implants, dental bridges, and denture to replace them.
Teeth Grinding FAQs
Why do I grind my teeth?
There’s no one specific reason why people grind their teeth. It can stem from a variety of things. Things like anxiety, stress, anger, or frustration can all lead to this habit. It may also be something you do when you’re concentrating.
Can a dentist cure teeth grinding?
There is no definite cure for grinding your teeth. Our treatment options can lessen the habit or impact and relieve symptoms. We can also work with you so that you can notice you’re doing it during the day and take steps to stop it.
Can grinding my teeth impact my speech?
The longer you grind your teeth, the more likely you will suffer bite problems. This can impact your speech and the way you make different sounds.
Can grinding teeth cause gum recession?
Yes, teeth grinding can contribute to gum recession. Teeth grinding puts a lot of force and pressure on your gums. Over time, this force can cause your gums to recede, exposing the roots of your teeth. Teeth grinding can also lead to other dental problems, such as tooth damage and TMJ disorders. Therefore, talking to your dentist if you suspect you might be grinding your teeth is important.
Can teeth grinding cause cavities?
Teeth grinding can indirectly lead to cavities. While teeth grinding doesn’t directly cause cavities, it can wear down your enamel over time. This outer layer of teeth is your first line of defense against cavities. If the enamel starts to wear away, it will expose the inner layers of your teeth, which are more susceptible to decay. Once this happens, it’s easier for plaque and bacteria to damage your teeth and lead to cavities. If you’re grinding your teeth, addressing the issue with your dentist is crucial to prevent cavities.
Does grinding your teeth cause headaches?
Yes, teeth grinding can contribute to headaches. The constant clenching and grinding put a lot of pressure on your facial and jaw muscles. This can lead to tension headaches. In addition, if you frequently wake up with headaches in the morning, it could be a sign that you’re grinding your teeth while you sleep. So, if you’re suffering from recurrent headaches, you should discuss the possibility of teeth grinding with your dentist.
If you are experiencing any signs of teeth grinding, be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Deckard. To schedule an appointment, call (202) 851-7554 or request an appointment online.