Though the causes of teeth grinding aren’t entirely well-known, the various effects it can have on your general and dental health are widely understood. As explained by the expert dentists from Dental Distinctions, based in Kalispell, MT, nearly one in ten people experience bruxism. Here’s a more detailed look at the impacts bruxism has on your teeth and how you can prevent it.

Expert Dentist on What Happens When You Grind Your Teeth

Grinding your teeth can lead to a variety of conditions, which typically range in severity. If the habit is persistent, or if the patient uses extreme force when grinding, the effects may become even more serious over time. For example, consistent bruxism may cause excessive tension and lead to migraines or severe headaches. Additionally, patients often experience ear and sinus pains, as well as stiffness in the shoulders and neck.

Perhaps even more seriously, this condition can have devastating effects on your dental health. Grinding may lead to excessive wear on your teeth, causing them to lose protective enamel. It could even cause the teeth to fracture. Or, it may lead to inflamed muscles and tendons around the mouth, which can cause pain and temporomandibular joint disorder.

How Can You Put a Stop to It?

Because teeth grinding can have such negative effects, it’s important that you work with a general dentistry professional to treat this condition. Your dentist should fit you with a mouthguard, which can protect your teeth if you grind in your sleep. They may also be able to provide stress counseling if you believe this is the cause of the bruxism. Try reducing your intake of caffeine, avoid alcohol, and actively train yourself not to clench your jaw throughout the day.

If you experience any of the side effects of teeth grinding, don’t hesitate to reach out to the expert dentists at Dental Distinctions for help. Dedicated to creating individualized treatment plans, their expert team will work with you to determine the cause of the condition and provide the treatment you need. New research shows that grinding your teeth can be a sign of an airway disorder, and Dental Distinctions offers at-home sleep screening kits to help determine if this contributes to your bruxism. To learn more about their wide range of services, visit them online. Or, schedule an appointment by calling them today at (406) 755-4166.