Worn Teeth Got You Feeling Worn Out?
How We Treat Teeth Grinding at Greater Long Island Dental in Massapequa.
Morning Headaches? Poor Sleep? Achy Jaw?
These are just a few of the symptoms of teeth grinding — a condition known to dentists as bruxism. Grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw can lead to worn teeth, headaches, jaw aches, and a host of other painful symptoms.
If any of this sounds familiar, don’t worry, we can help. Schedule a consultation or keep reading to learn more about teeth grinding and jaw clenching.
3 things you need to know about grinding teeth
- Since the process is gradual, worn teeth are hard to notice. Many people are surprised when their dentist points out the issue.
- While many cases of nighttime clenching and tooth grinding are caused by stress, a misaligned jaw or other factors may also be at play.
- A custom night guard worn while you sleep can provide relief and prevent teeth grinding and jaw pain.
What Causes Tooth Grinding?
Life stresses
Misaligned jaw
Poor sleep quality
Side effect of some medications
How Teeth Grinding Can Affect Your Life & Health
Teeth grinding can wreak havoc on both your health and quality of life:
- Worn teeth are more likely to chip, crack, or fracture
- Jaw clenching can lead to TMJ pain, making it painful to chew or speak
- Tension in the jaw at night can lead to poor sleep quality and drowsiness during the day
- Chronic and untreated bruxism often results in headaches
How We Treat Teeth Grinding
Nightguards
With nighttime teeth grinding, it may be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. Some people grind their teeth every night. Others find their bruxism “flares up” when they’re under stress at work or when taking a new medication.
It may be easier and less stressful to wear a nightguard while you sleep! Our custom made night guards are designed to fit perfectly and comfortably. They prevent clenching, grinding, and damage to your teeth.
Ask your dentist for more information.
Other Treatments for Tooth Grinding and Jaw Clenching
While many people grind and clench their jaws at night while asleep, others may do so during the day. This rarer form of bruxism can often be treated with changes in behavior and lifestyle — excessive caffeine intake may be a trigger, for example.
For others who grind at night, the cause may be a misaligned bite. Orthodontics like Invisalign can correct this misalignment and eliminate tooth grinding.
Improved sleep hygiene and relaxation may help some people stop grinding their teeth. This is particularly true for those who find their bruxism is triggered by stress.
Stop grinding and start smiling! See a dentist you trust
The dentists and staff at Greater Long Island Dental in Massapequa are known for our smiling faces, gentle touch, and commitment to exceeding our patients’ expectations.
If you’re suffering from bruxism or TMJ pain, we’ll help you feel confident about your smile and your health. You’ll always be treated with the utmost care, respect, and compassion at our office.
Greater Long Island Dental
mail@greaterlidental.com
Monday - Thursday | 9am - 7pm
Friday | 9am - 2pm
Saturday | 7am - 12pm (Apr-Oct)
Sunday | Sat- 8am - 1pm (Nov-Mar)
See you soon!
Schedule an appointment at Greater Long Island Dental in Massapequa to learn more about how we can help you stop grinding your teeth.
Schedule an Appointment