Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can be a painful and challenging issue for many dental patients. People who clench or grind their teeth should talk with a dentist to monitor any changes while taking steps to break the habit. Many general dentistry services can help those with bruxism find relief.
Preventative care
There are numerous reasons a person may struggle with teeth grinding. Fortunately, a general dentist can help patients make small changes that can significantly reduce the frequency and effects of this habit.
Mouthguards
For people who grind or clench their teeth at night, a mouthguard can provide some much-needed relief with minimal effort. While it is possible to purchase a generic, one-size-fits-all option, most dentists recommend a custom mouthguard that is designed to fit a person's unique mouth shape and size. Custom mouthguards help reduce discomfort, offer better protection, and tend to have a longer lifespan.
Stress reduction
Many people grind their teeth because of stress and anxiety. Taking steps to reduce stress and relieve tension can help patients get bruxism under control. A dentist may recommend a variety of options, including relaxation exercises, stretches, or medication. Some dentists can also administer injections along the jawline to limit the muscle tension that can cause bruxism.
Dietary changes
Consuming certain foods or beverages tends to make teeth grinding worse. Dentists often recommend that patients with bruxism avoid:
- Alcohol
- Sodas
- Chocolate
- Coffee
- Other foods high in caffeine
It may also be wise to avoid tough, crunchy, or hard foods; These can place more pressure on teeth and muscles that are already under excess stress.
Damage control
Unfortunately, chronic teeth grinding can cause damage that must be repaired. Wearing down the chewing surfaces of teeth can also cause alignment issues and extreme discomfort. If a tooth is misshapen, chipped, or cracked because of bruxism, there are several general dentistry treatments that can help restore the damage.
Dental crowns
Dental crowns are often the treatment of choice when it comes to repairing a damaged tooth. For teeth towards the back of the mouth, a dentist can reinforce the crown with metal to provide continued protection, even if teeth grinding continues.
Bridges and implants
If a tooth has been severely damaged and must be removed, a bridge can be used to attach a prosthetic replacement to two adjoining teeth. For patients who want a more durable and realistic option, implants can also be used. A dentist can help recommend the right approach based on a variety of factors, including overall oral and bone health.
Other treatment options
When teeth grinding results in major damage to a tooth, it is possible for the soft tissues inside to become infected. If this occurs, a root canal may be needed. If numerous teeth are severely damaged and implants are not a viable option, dentures may be recommended for smile restoration.
Conclusion
General dentistry can help patients suffering from a variety of issues, including teeth grinding. Routine care and prompt treatment are the keys to keeping bruxism under control and preventing serious damage.
Request an appointment here: https://trophysmilestudio.com or call Trophy Smile Studio at (817) 210-4049 for an appointment in our Trophy Club office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Trophy Club, TX.
Related Posts
A general dentist shared some ways to help prevent bad breath. This is a topic no one wants to discuss. Bad breath happens to everyone at one point or another. If you take proper precautions, you can avoid having bad breath. We should openly talk about this taboo topic. The more we talk about it, the…
Your general dentist is here to provide some information about how to best take care of your teeth. Dental health and hygiene are essential to the overall health and wellness of your body. Without healthy teeth and gums, you will be unable to take in the nutrients and proteins necessary for your body to thrive…
Teeth in a day is a unique way of restoring lost teeth with dental implants. This procedure removes the long waiting period of regular implants – tooth removal, implant placement, denture fabrication, then prosthetic placement. Instead, teeth in a day streamlines the process. The dentist can immediately place the removable denture or restoration on the…
People often come across general dentistry questions regarding procedures, treatment options or routine dental care. Being aware of the options that exist can help a person feel more comfortable about going to their dentist. It’s always good to ask questions in order to be fully informed of what is going on. Today, we will go…