Bruxism/Teeth Grinding

When you grind or clench your teeth aggressively and unknowingly, you may be suffering from bruxism. This common condition happens whether awake or asleep, and many individuals don’t even realize what they are doing. Unfortunately, this subconscious activity has severe consequences and can greatly damage your teeth and jaw.

There are many signs of bruxism that can alert you that you need medical attention. A few signs of this condition include:

• You regularly notice chips or cracks in your teeth.
• Your enamel wears down and you become more prone to cavities.
• You experience increased tooth sensitivity.
• Your teeth are quickly flattening and changing shapes.
• You are waking up in the night from loud grinding or pain in the jaw.
• You feel constant pain in your jaw and have a continual headache.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is time to meet with a dental professional at Markham 7 Dental as soon as possible. While there is no known cause of this condition, there are many risk factors that contribute to severe grinding including stress, genetics, your age, and even physical and mental disorders. This condition is frequently seen with individuals who suffer from ADHD, epilepsy, night terrors, and sleep apnea. Once we narrow down possible causes, our team of professionals will work with you to create a treatment plan to protect your teeth and jaw right away.

In many cases, a night guard may be necessary to keep your teeth safe while you are sleeping each night. We can fit you properly for a night guard and help you choose a product that is most effective for your condition. When worn properly, it will keep your teeth protected from the effects of grinding and clenching. For more information on bruxism or to be evaluated for the condition, don’t delay and contact us today.