Do you grind your teeth? Unfortunately, you may have no idea how to answer this question; most people don't know whether or not they are teeth grinders because it happens subconsciously in their sleep. Due to the damage that bruxism can cause, your dentist may be the first to alert you of the issue. It’s important to visit the dentist regularly to catch the problem in its early stages, so make your appointment today with Stephanie ML Wong DMD, a family dentist serving the Honolulu community with high-quality dental care.

Read on for three frequently asked questions about bruxism:

• Why Does This Happen? Anxiety and stress are believed to be the most common causes behind teeth grinding. Other possible causes include sleep apnea, irregular bites, and missing teeth.
• What Are The Dangers? Early stages of teeth grinding can cause discomfort, soreness, or pain in the jaw area. Advanced tooth grinding can lead to damage requiring tooth crowns, implants, or root canal treatment.
• How Can The Dentist Help? If your teeth are showing signs of grinding damage, Dr. Wong will assess the damage. She will then discuss your unique case and possible solutions with you. Depending on the circumstances, she may fit you for a mouth guard to protect your teeth during the night or recommend tooth crowns or implants to address more advanced damage.

For all your dental care needs, visit Stephanie ML Wong DMD of Honolulu. To schedule your appointment, call the dentist at (808) 732-3072, or visit their website today.