Knowing more about various dental conditions can help a patient be aware of their own oral state. Any signs of irregularities on the teeth or other oral structures should be assessed by a dentist to make sure that it would not progress to a more serious case. A sudden increase in teeth sensitivity for instance or intense pain when putting pressure on the teeth can be signs of a problem that occurs during sleep – Bruxism! Does not ring a bell? Well then, here are the common questions most people asked about the condition.

What is bruxism?

It is actually a medical term used for patients who excessively grinds or clenches their teeth. Bruxism is considered as a movement disorder that is sleep related, but it can also occur when they are fully awake.

Source: Bruxism (teeth grinding) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

How to know if you have the condition?

Since grinding and teeth clenching is done unconsciously, a patient who has the condition can stay unaware that they have it. So for everyone to be aware of this complication, here are the signs to watch out for:

• Inexplicable damage on teeth like chips or cracks
• Frequent morning headaches
• Sudden changes in the facial structure
• Pain and tenderness in the jaw
• Complaints from bed partner or family members about the noise you make when sleeping
• Increase in teeth sensitivity
• Change in the shape of the teeth
• Unexplained sleep disruptions

Why is it necessary to get treatment for bruxism?

A medical term used for patients who excessively grinds or clenches their teeth. Bruxism is considered as a movement disorder that is sleep related, but it can also occur when they are fully awake.

What is the effective cure for teeth grinding?

Avoiding stressful activities and change of lifestyle can help minimize the excessive grinding that occurs during daytime or at night. But the most effective thing to do is to seek the assistance of a dental professional at Hilltop Dental Studio. We create custom-made night guards to combat the effects of bruxism. The night guard would serve as a barrier that prevents the contact of the upper and lower teeth. It also works as a cushion that minimizes the pressure applied on the teeth when clenching. The oral appliance is specially made for each of our patients for maximum protection of the teeth.

Source: Bruxism | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Get added protection to your teeth to prevent the adverse effects of bruxism with our Night guards in Spotsylvania, VA. Book your appointment with Hilltop Dental Studio! Our dental office is located at 10466 Georgetown Dr. Spotsylvania, VA 22553.