Smile Source Atlanta East is a top-rated dental care practice in Stone Mountain, GA. Our skilled team of dental care experts has the unique training to diagnose and treat teeth grinding and its underlying issues effectively and comfortably for long-term relief.
Can't Stop Grinding Your Teeth?
Teeth grinding and jaw clenching is a condition referred to as bruxism, and it can occur at any age and for various reasons. Bruxism can lead to tooth wear, breakage, and bite problems. It can even contribute to temporomandibular jaw (TMJ) disorder, which may cause debilitating symptoms if untreated.
It's important to stop bruxism so your teeth and bite remain healthy. Bruxism treatment is a type of preventive dentistry because it helps you avoid further oral health damage. In addition, bruxism treatment can encompass restorative dentistry treatments, like crowns and bridgework. Our talented dentists are here to help you restore your oral health and prevent chronic teeth grinding.Â
The Connection Between Stress and Teeth Grinding
Stress is one of the leading causes of teeth grinding. When you're under pressure, your body may react by clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth—often without you knowing. This can happen during the day when you're focused on work or at night while you sleep.
Common stress-related triggers of bruxism include:
- Anxiety
- Pressure or conflict at work or home
- Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea
- Caffeine or alcohol consumption before bed
- Poor posture or jaw misalignment, which can stress your jaw
If stress is behind your bruxism, stress management methods such as relaxation techniques, exercise, and meditation can work alongside professional dental care to reduce the frequency and severity of your bruxism.
Long-Term Effects of Untreated Bruxism on Oral Health
Without treatment, bruxism can lead to significant dental problems, including:
- Tooth wear and fractures:Â Continuous grinding weakens tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity and cracks.
- Jaw pain and TMJ disorders:Â Clenching and grinding put excessive pressure on the jaw muscles, potentially causing TMJ issues.
- Headaches and ear pain:Â The constant tension in your jaw muscles can lead to frequent headaches and ear discomfort.
- Receding gums and loose teeth:Â Grinding stresses the gums and supporting structures, which can contribute to gum recession and tooth mobility. You could even lose teeth if the problem continues.
Early intervention with a custom night guard and stress-reduction techniques can help protect your oral health.
How to Choose the Right Night Guard for Your Needs
At your consultation, your Smile Source Atlanta East dentist thoroughly assesses your teeth to determine the factors at play with your bruxism. They recommend a custom treatment plan, often including a dental appliance to stop the bruxing.
A night guard is a powerful bruxism treatment tool.
- Soft night guards:Â Ideal for mild cases, these provide cushioning but may not be durable for heavy grinders.
- Hard night guards:Â Made from rigid plastic, these are recommended for severe bruxism cases to prevent significant tooth wear.
- Dual-layer night guards:Â Combine a soft interior for comfort with a hard exterior for durability.
A custom-fit night guard from our team ensures maximum comfort and protection compared to over-the-counter options.
Restorative Dentistry Options After Bruxism Damage
If bruxism has already seriously damaged your teeth, the next step is often restorative dentistry, which can repair the damage and restore your smile. Options include:
- Dental crowns:Â Protect weakened or fractured teeth.
- Dental bonding: Repairs minor chips and cracks.
- Orthodontics: Addresses bite misalignment contributing to bruxism.
Veneers are another option for damaged teeth. They're a cosmetic dentistry treatment in which porcelain panels cover worn-down enamel for an improved appearance.
Why Choose Us For Help With Teeth Grinding?
Teeth grinding treatment is easy and comfortable with us. Drawing upon many combined decades of specialized experience, our dental care team has deep expertise in teeth-grinding solutions.
We're proud to be known as the leading Stone Mountain dental practice, an honor we earned because we prioritize patient education and personalized care, ensuring a comfortable experience with a team that genuinely cares about your oral health.
FAQs About Teeth Grinding
What causes teeth grinding and jaw clenching?
Stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, misaligned teeth, or lifestyle factors like excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption can cause bruxism.
How can night guards prevent damage caused by bruxism?
Night guards place a shield between the upper and lower teeth, reducing the pressure that leads to enamel wear and jaw strain.
Are there different oral appliances for day and night teeth grinding?
Night guards are thicker and designed for overnight use, while daytime guards are thinner and more discreet for comfort during daily activities.
What symptoms indicate that bruxism is affecting your dental health?
Common signs include tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, frequent headaches, worn enamel, and difficulty opening or closing your mouth.
Teeth Grinding Help in Stone Mountain
Don't let bruxism harm your teeth and dim your smile. Our expert team at Smile Source Atlanta East is here to help, so call our office or reach out online now.
