Chronic night grinding on your teeth, which is also known as bruxism, is often the result of untreated stress. Even though it might not seem serious at first, the unnatural pressure on the teeth and the tension in the jaw muscles and joints can lead to significant oral health issues. This might start with dental attrition and dental fractures on multiple teeth. Yet, as time goes on it can also cause tension and inflammation in complex temporomandibular joints that hinge your jaw.
This can easily promote issues with TMJ disorder, which can have a serious impact on your overall quality of life. Treating it can be a lengthy process of lifestyle modification and potential oral surgery.
Should stress management techniques fail to improve the problem, Dr. Gregory Stahr can fit you for a custom dental guard. When it’s inserted in your mouth while you sleep, this soft, plastic mouthpiece allows some slip between your teeth. It can also help cushion the biting surfaces to prevent further damage to the tooth enamel.
With regular use, this helps reduce inflammation and soreness that is caused by the tension of grinding and clenching the jaw. However, if you do develop more significant TMJ disorder issues, you will likely need professional treatment with our orthodontic team.
If you live in the Lexington, Kentucky, area and you’ve struggled with chronic night grinding, you should call 859.278.9391 to explore your treatment options at All Stahr Dental PSC.