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Protect your teeth from the effects of clenching and grinding with bruxism treatment in Chattanooga!
Clenching and grinding teeth at night is a common concern. Some people do so without ever harming their smiles.
However, chronic bruxism poses a major risk to dental health. It can damage tooth enamel and lead to jaw pain issues.
If you wake up with a tight, sore jaw or have a loved one complain about grinding sounds at night, seek bruxism treatment in Chattanooga. Dr. Harry Suekert will help you safeguard your smile from the dangerous effects of bruxism. Schedule your appointment today.
What is Bruxism?
Forcefully clenching or grating teeth is known as bruxism. Over time, this can harm your teeth, jaw, and oral health.
A major part of the problem is that many who suffer from bruxism aren’t aware of it, because it occurs during sleep. It’s possible it can also happen during the day for some people as well.
Bruxism can affect people of all ages. Some risk factors can make the condition worse, including:
- A cold or infection
- Certain drugs
- Sleep disorders
- Alcohol
- Stress
- Anxiety
In toddlers specifically, teething or ear infections may prompt bruxism.
Effects of Bruxism
Bruxism poses serious health risks to your smile. Some of the most common ways it can harm your smile include:
- Enamel wearing/loss
- Causing loose teeth
- Fracturing teeth
The damage may require extensive dental intervention to repair. The tooth damage could require a root canal, bridge, or crown to resolve. In extreme cases, the only option may be tooth replacement solutions like dentures.
Aside from tooth damage, bruxism can also harm your jaw. It can exacerbate TMJ symptoms and alter your facial appearance.
Tips to Reduce Bruxism
- Cut back or eliminate foods that contain caffeine from your diet. This includes coffee, soda, tea, and chocolate.
- Avoid alcohol. Alcohol tends to increase the severity and frequency of bruxism.
- Don’t chew on anything that is not food. This includes gum, pencils, or pens. Constantly chewing conditions your jaw muscles to stay clenched and makes you more likely to grind your teeth.
Bruxism Treatment in Chattanooga, TN
A custom mouth guard/night guard can shield your teeth from the harmful effects of bruxism while also improving your sleep. However, to effectively resolve tooth grinding completely, you must address the underlying causes.
If stress is causing your bruxism, ask your doctor or dentist about how to alleviate stress. Counseling, medication, or improved daily habits (like exercise) may help reduce teeth grinding. Exercise, stress counseling, or prescription muscle relaxers may help reduce how often or severely you grind your teeth.
Visit Us for Teeth Grinding Treatment in Chattanooga, TN
Bruxism is not something to ignore, as it can cause serious long-term damage. Professional dental care is one of the simplest ways to protect your teeth from the harmful effects of clenching and grinding.
Turn to Dr. Suekert’s dental clinic for complete teeth grinding treatment in Chattanooga. Schedule your appointment today.
