While sleeping, you may gnash, grind, or clench your teeth. This is a forceful contact that might cause significant damage. Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding affects many adults compared to children. This condition can also occur during the day when you are conscious. Most people with teeth grinding problems are not aware of it because it happens when they are deep asleep. However, you can tell if you grind your teeth at night if you have a painful jaw, increased tooth sensitivity, and damaged teeth, among others.
A Painful Jaw
If you wake up with a sore or painful jaw, you could be grinding your teeth at night. When grinding, the jaw is exposed to excessive pressure, making it swell its joints. This results in pain and discomfort. With a painful jaw, you will find it difficult to open your mouth. Consequently, you will have problems eating, speaking, and laughing. If you are experiencing such symptoms, you should visit our offices for checks and possible treatment.
Increased Tooth Sensitivity
Another effect of teeth grinding is tooth sensitivity. When you grind your teeth, you wear down the enamel. The enamel is a tough outer layer of your tooth that protects it from bacterial intrusion. It also shields the underlying dentin and nerves that are very sensitive. When the enamel is damaged, the nerves and dentin are exposed. Therefore, you will experience excessive tooth sensitivity. You will notice a sharp pain when drinking cold or hot beverages. Tooth sensitivity can also make eating very difficult.
Damaged Teeth
If you have damaged teeth, it could also be a sign of teeth grinding. Bruxism can result in chipped, flattened, or worn down teeth. This is dangerous to your teeth because it can result in tooth loss. Therefore, it is important to visit our offices for treatment immediately if you notice damaged teeth. Contact us for more information on the symptoms of bruxism.
Rho Family Dentistry, 2525 K Street, Suite 108 Sacramento, CA 95816 \ (916) 562-2755 \ rhofamilydentistry.com \ 11/27/2024 \ Tags: dentist Sacramento CA \
While sleeping, you may gnash, grind, or clench your teeth. This is a forceful contact that might cause significant damage. Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding affects many adults compared to children. This condition can also occur during the day when you are conscious. Most people with teeth grinding problems are not aware of it because it happens when they are deep asleep. However, you can tell if you grind your teeth at night if you have a painful jaw, increased tooth sensitivity, and damaged teeth, among others.