Visiting the dentist and practicing good oral hygiene habits at home are essential to keeping your smile in the best condition. However, bruxism can have negative effects on your teeth even when your dental care regimen is correct. If you’re unfamiliar with this condition, here are a few frequently asked questions that will help you understand what it is, and how a dentist may treat it.

FAQ About Bruxism

1. What is it?

Bruxism is another word for teeth grinding or clenching. It happens unknowingly while you’re awake, but it occurs mostly while you’re sleeping. Teeth grinding can be caused by stress, anxiety, and sleep apnea.

2. Why is bruxism harmful?

Depending on how frequently you grind your teeth, bruxism can have harmful and permanent side effects. If the condition is severe, you can experience physical damage to your teeth enamel and crowns. Additionally, you may have frequent tension headaches and jaw pain. These side effects can change the way you chew and speak if they aren’t addressed.

3. What are the symptoms of bruxism?

It can be challenging to recognize the problem if you grind your teeth at night while you’re asleep. Potential symptoms to look for include continually waking up with a headache and feeling frequent pain in your jaw. In more severe cases, you may start to notice damaged dental fillings and teeth.

4. How is it treated?

Since bruxism is generally caused by underlying causes, it’s best to contact a healthcare professional for assistance. If the condition is caused by sleep apnea, treating the sleeping disorder first may help alleviate your bruxism. In addition to figuring out the specific cause of your condition, a dentist can recommend a custom mouthguard to wear while sleeping—this will alleviate the pressure on your teeth and gums.

If you’re experiencing painful side effects from grinding your teeth, turn to Nelson Hatanaka D.D.S., in Honolulu, HI. Dr. Hatanaka is a skilled dentist with over 35 years of experience, and he and his team provide a wide variety of dental services for people of all ages. They also offer flexible appointments for patients with unique and busy schedules, making it easy for everyone to get the help they need. Call (808) 395-1922 to request an appointment.