Do you have a habit of grinding your teeth? Officially called bruxism, teeth grinding is fairly common, and it’s usually harmless. If you do this consistently, though, dentists warn that you could end up damaging the enamel. Since stress is a leading cause of bruxism and April happens to be National Stress Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to think about combatting your teeth grinding once and for all. Here’s what you should know about bruxism if you’re a chronic grinder. 

Common Causes

Anxiety is one of the most common causes of teeth grinding. Even if you make an active effort to relieve stress in your life, though, teeth grinding could still be a problem because it often occurs during sleep. Additionally, anxiety may not be the only contributor to your bruxism. Other common causes include sleep apnea, crooked or missing teeth, and a misaligned bite. If you often wake up with a dull headache or sore jaw, it may be because you grind your teeth while you sleep. 

Treatment & Prevention 

If you have bruxism, you should ask your dentist about various preventive measures. If left unchecked, teeth grinding can cause chips, cracks, and fractures. In severe cases, it can even loosen the teeth until they eventually fall out. Bruxism can also affect the jaw and contribute to conditions like TMJ disorders. 

Fortunately, combatting teeth grinding is fairly straightforward. To treat the immediate problem, your dentist can fit you with a custom mouthguard. As for addressing the underlying cause, the most effective treatment will depend on the circumstances. Common approaches include relieving stress, taking muscle relaxants, and treating any existing sleeping disorders. 

If you grind your teeth and think it’s affecting your oral health, turn to the friendly dentists at Anchorage Dental Center. Located in Alaska, this family practice provides comprehensive oral health care for patients of all ages. Founded in 1964, they have remained a leader in the field ever since. Whether you need a simple teeth cleaning or dental implants, you can rely on their team for quality care. To request a dentist appointment, call (907) 278-2521 or reach out on their website.