Grinding your teeth? Bruxism is a condition in which you clench or grind your teeth. In the U.S., bruxism affects an estimated 30 to 40 million adults and children. Dr. Richard George and Dr. Boone Allen at Townesquare Dental, located in Rigby, ID, offers a variety of bruxism treatments to their patients. Read on to learn about the perfect solution to teeth grinding.

Causes of Bruxism

Although bruxism can be caused by anxiety and stress, it is more likely caused by an abnormal bite or crooked teeth. Bruxism is also an effect of some medications, such as phenothiazines or certain antidepressants. Other psychological or physical causes of bruxism may include suppressed anger or frustration, an aggressive personality type and complications resulting from a disorder, such as Parkinson's disease or Huntington's disease.

Signs and Symptoms

Because bruxism often occurs during sleep, most individuals are unaware that they grind and clench their teeth. However, a sore jaw or a headache upon awakening is a sign of bruxism. Other signs and symptoms of bruxism may include teeth that are fractured, flattened, loose or chipped. Facial pain is also a sign of bruxism. People who have otherwise healthy teeth can clench so often and so hard that over time they experience pain.

Dangers of Bruxism

Although teeth grinding is not an uncommon habit, the dental and medical professionals recognize that severe cases can lead to injury. The force of grinding and clenching causes pressure on the tissues, muscles and other structures around the jaw. This activity, if performed to excess, can lead to jaw pain, headaches, jaw disorders, damaged teeth, earaches and other problems.

Solutions for Bruxism in Rigby

In order to prevent further damage to your teeth, you may need a night guard. A night guard is a removable, custom-made mouth appliance that absorbs the force of biting and grinding during sleep. The night guard is a protective device for the mouth that covers the teeth and gums. It acts as a protective layer between your top and bottom teeth. Night guards are used to prevent and reduce injury to the teeth and arches.

A dental checkup is important to detect damage caused by bruxism. Based on your dentist’s diagnosis, one or more treatments may be recommended. If you're suffering from bruxism, call Townesquare Dental in Rigby, ID, at (208) 745-8704 today to schedule your dental appointment. Our treatments for bruxism are designed to get rid of teeth grinding altogether.