If you’ve heard of bruxism, then you might feel a tinge of worry every time you catch yourself grinding your teeth. Fortunately, one or two occasions doesn’t usually constitute a problem. In fact, many patients with bruxism don’t realize that they grind their teeth because they so most often at night. To find out if it’s become a problem for you, ask your dentist about teeth-grinding and whether or not you should seek treatment before it affects your oral health and jaw function.

Why does bruxism cause jaw pain?

Bruxism causes you to grind your teeth excessively without you realizing it, and when allowed to continue, the stress and pressure on your jaw can cause damage to the muscles and joints. Known as TMJ disorder, the damage can lead to severe pain, discomfort, and difficulty opening and closing your jaw.

How do I know if teeth-grinding means I have bruxism?

If you’re worried that you might have bruxism, but aren’t sure, then the best way to find out is to seek a professional diagnosis from your dentist. During your examination, your dentist can check for signs such as excessive tooth wear, damage, misalignment, and more. If you do have bruxism, then you and your dentist can work together to develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Is there a non-invasive treatment option?

For many patients with bruxism, the good news is that treatment is often as simple as wearing a custom-designed, minimally-invasive nightguard as you sleep. The guard will stop your teeth from grinding together and allow your jaw to rest more comfortably, helping you avoid the damage that results from unchecked bruxism.

Ask Your Dentist About Teeth-Grinding

If you think you might be grinding your teeth too much, or if you experience chronic jaw pain that may be related to bruxism and TMJ disorder, then visit us as soon as possible to find relief. Make an appointment by calling Dr. Steven Huffstutler in Ft. Worth, TX, today at 817-918-3038.