Answering A Few Questions About Grinding Your Teeth
Over the course of your life, your teeth while be subjected to a number of different types of damages. Unfortunately, there are many patients that may be poorly informed about these risks. In particular, it can be common for patients to have a weaker understanding about the problem of grinding teeth. By learning the following new questions and answers, you should find that you are far better informed about this particular threat to your teeth.
Why Is It Bad To Grind Your Teeth?
There are some patients that might assume that grinding their teeth is not a serious problem. However, it can gradually cause substantial wear on the teeth. In particular, it can weaken the enamel, which may make it more likely for you to suffer a cracked tooth or cavity. Additionally, grinding can place a tremendous stress on your jaw joints and muscles, which can cause a number of issues for your jaws, such as inflammation and soreness.
How Would You Know If You Grind Your Teeth While You Sleep?
Sadly, there are many patients that will grind their teeth while they are sleeping, which can make it difficult for them to realize that they have this habit. If you find that you frequently wake up with a deep soreness in your jaws and teeth, this may be a warning sign that you are grinding while you sleep. Additionally, you should pay attention to see if these pains seem to be worse during periods of intense stress as stress can help to trigger this habit. Luckily, your dentist will be able to examine your teeth to confirm whether you have this habit because it will leave a distinct wear pattern on the surface of the teeth.
Are There Any Steps That Can Be Taken To Correct This Problem?
If your dentist confirms that you are grinding your teeth while sleeping, you may assume that there is nothing that can be done for this problem. Luckily, it is possible for your dentist to craft a specially fitted mouthpiece that will be able to prevent you from damaging your teeth in this manner. Some individuals may be hesitant about wearing this mouthpiece to sleep because it might feel somewhat strange the first couple of nights. However, you will quickly adapt to wearing the mouthpiece, and enduring this transition period will be more than worth it to protect your teeth against this potentially devastating problem.
For more information, contact a general dentist in your area, like one at Dental Associates PC.
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