If you have persistent headaches, you may be surprised to find out there could be a link to your smile. Bruxism, in which a person consistently grinds the teeth or clenches the jaw, could lead to headaches and other symptoms. How do we treat bruxism and help our patients in Gary, IN, enjoy healthier smiles?
What Causes Bruxism?
Bruxism could occur due to a number of different factors. For example, tooth loss, misalignment, bite imbalance, and injury to the face or jaw could cause the disorder. Not to mention high levels of stress in your daily life, regular consumption of caffeinated drinks, and untreated TMJ disorder.
Headaches and Other Warning Signs
For some, a significant other will alert them to their grinding episodes. Others should be aware of the symptoms that occur during the day. For example, headaches, jaw pain, toothaches, tooth sensitivity, and facial pain could all potentially indicate the presence of teeth grinding. If you begin to experience one or more of these possible symptoms, then let us know as soon as possible.
Treatment Options
Treating the issue helps prevent teeth from becoming chipped, or cracked, or having tooth enamel worn away. In order to avoid discomfort and tooth decay, we may suggest a custom mouthpiece. The mouthguard will be worn as the patient sleeps. The device helps stop grinding episodes by repositioning the jaw. The appliance also prevents further damage to the teeth by placing a barrier between the upper and lower sets of teeth. If you have any questions about treating bruxism, or if you think you’re grinding your teeth, then contact our team today. Don’t live with the discomfort and oral health risks posed by teeth grinding!
Do You Suffer From Teeth Grinding?
We want to help you find the best solution for your teeth grinding, whether that means placing a restoration, offering orthodontics, or creating a custom-made mouthpiece. To schedule an appointment with your dentist, contact Healthy Smiles in Gary, IN, by calling 219-938-2637, or by emailing our office at info@healthysmilesnwi.com. We also proudly serve the residents of Gary, Miller, Miller Beach, and all surrounding communities.