During each routine dental exam with your family dentist, this oral hygiene expert will both clean and assess the condition of your teeth and gums. At the appointment, you may find out that you’re one of 30 million Americans that deals with a condition known as bruxism, or teeth grinding. If you or a loved one has just been diagnosed with this ailment, here’s some insight into bruxism and your treatment options. 

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism refers to the habit of clenching or grinding your teeth. While some dental patients may form the habit while awake as a way of coping with stress or anxiety, many individuals with bruxism tend to clench the jaw and grind teeth while asleep. 

What Are the Primary Symptoms?

If you’re grinding your teeth at night, you may not be aware of this practice at first. That being said, if your bruxism goes from mild to moderate or severe, you’ll experience tooth pain, headaches, soreness in your jaw, sleep disruptions, and damage to your teeth, from chips to worn down enamel requiring the assistance of a family dentist to repair. 

How Can Your Family Dentist Treat Teeth Grinding?

A visit to your dentist is the best way to diagnose bruxism, as they’ll have the tools and training to evaluate any damage due to grinding and clenching. Next, you’ll work to discover the root of the habit, based on dental abnormalities, your routine, or stress levels. Beyond behavioral changes and anxiety management, you may be able to curb the effects of teeth grinding with splints and mouth guards.

Bethel Family Dentistry is a trusted dental clinic that serves patients throughout Bethel, OH, and its surrounding areas. Led by experienced family dentist Dr. Michael J. Minarchek, this practice has established a reputation for quality care and a friendly, compassionate bedside manner. If you need help managing bruxism, or you need a routine dental exam to determine the source of your tooth pain, call the office today at (513) 734-2029 to schedule your first appointment.