Bruxism, otherwise known as teeth grinding, is a common disorder that is found particularly in children and occurs most commonly during sleep. There is no cure for bruxism, but it is easily treated with a night guard custom made by a Fairbanks dentist. However, if left untreated, teeth grinding can cause lasting damage. Here are some of the repercussions of bruxism. Tooth Damage Heavy grinding can lead to stress fractures of the teeth. These fractures first appear as a brown discoloration and can result in chipped and broken teeth. Tooth grinding, if not treated, also causes excessive wear on the teeth, making them shorter. This, in turn, necessitates more jaw force to chew, which only increases the damage. Dental Work Repair Just as bruxism can cause damage to the teeth, it can also damage expensive dental work. Crowns, bridges, and implants, though extremely durable, will eventually crack and break under habitual pressure, which will result in having to obtain expensive replacements. Jaw Damage The jaw bone is not made to withstand constant force and pressure. Excessive teeth grinding and jaw clenching can trigger a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ. TMJ is a chronic condition that produces symptoms of jaw pain, a clicking in the jaw, headaches, and earaches. Headaches Muscles in a constant state of tension grow weary. When wearied muscles continue to be taxed, pain ensues. Even without the presence of TMJ, the pressure from chronic jaw clenching can lead to severe tension headaches as fatigued facial muscles continue to be overworked. Treatment Though there is no cure for bruxism, there is treatment. A night guard worn every night effectively eliminates the ability to clench the jaw or grind the teeth, thereby relieving the patient’s symptoms. Night guards are custom made for each patient and are manufactured from a variety of materials, dependent upon the severity of the disorder. Night guards are durable and should last for a decade or more. If you or a family member suffers from bruxism, contact your Fairbanks dentist to discuss if a mouth guard could help protect your smile.
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