Be Aware Of Bruxing By Taking Our Quiz

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babIf you are not familiar with the term bruxing it means, according to dental literature, “diurnal and nocturnal parafunctional activity that includes clenching, bracing, gnashing, and grinding of teeth.”  In short, bruxers grind and clench their teeth sometimes at night and sometimes during the day, or both. While most people probably brux at one time or another, the percentage of chronic bruxers is unknown. Estimates range anywhere from five to 95 percent. In many cases, especially with nocturnal (night time) bruxers, the person is not even aware that they brux. Don’t let that be you. Be aware of bruxing by taking our quiz.

True or False?

  1. True or False: Most bruxers aren’t aware that they brux.
  2. True or False: Bruxing is really not a problem.
  3. True or False: Left untreated, bruxing can lead to the need for in-depth dental treatment.
  4. True or False: There is no treatment for bruxing.

Answers:

  1. True: Most people who brux aren’t even aware of it. Nocturnal bruxers especially because they brux during their sleep. Even day time bruxers are often unaware because it is an unconscious habit meaning that you don’t know that you’re doing it.
  2. False: The chronic grinding and clenching of teeth can lead to tooth wear, cracks, breaks, chips, and even loose teeth. It can also lead to problems such as TMJ disorders.
  3. True: Bruxing can wear down your teeth leading to a misaligned bite, or short, stubby teeth. Treatments for worn down teeth include dental bonding or veneers. If the habit leads to cracks or breaks you may need crown work.
  4. False: A mouth guard is often the treatment of choice for bruxers. It cushions your bite so your teeth do not grind or clench against one another, relieving the pressure on your teeth and jaw joint and eliminating/reducing damage and symptoms.

ABOUT YOUR NORTH RICHLAND HILLS DENTIST:

With over 25 years of professional experience, Dr. Steven M. Huffstutler and his caring team proudly provide exceptional preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatment to patients and their families across Dallas/Ft. Worth, including North Richland Hills, Denton, the Mid-cities, Southlake, and all surrounding communities. We also have extensive experience helping patients find relief from painful TMJ disorders (various forms of jaw dysfunction). To schedule an appointment with Dr. Huffstutler, contact our office today by calling 817-918-3038.