Without even realizing, many people grind and clench their teeth. In fact, this tends to be an unconscious habit either during the day if we are stressed and anxious, or at night when we are asleep. Whenever it happens, teeth grinding and clenching, or bruxism, can be detrimental to your teeth, as well as to your bite and jaw. At Pasadena Family Dentistry in Pasadena, TX, Dr. Kimber Holmes and Dr. Erica Revel can prescribe an oral appliance, called a nightguard or splint, to prevent grinding and clenching.
The Symptoms and Consequences of Bruxism
Common symptoms of bruxism may include tooth pain, jaw soreness, headaches or an earache in the absence of infection. Some of the consequences of bruxism are visible, although others are not visibly apparent. So, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms of bruxism, it’s important to have a dentist evaluate your unique situation. The consequences of teeth grinding and clenching include:
- Fine cracks or broken fillings in your molars
- Worn and uneven front teeth
- Teeth that are ground down and, therefore, consistently sensitive to hot and cold
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Headaches and jaw pain
- TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction
Your Custom-fitted Nightguard
Although there isn’t a cure for bruxism, Drs. Holmes and Revel can assess the degree of wear on your teeth, gums and jaw. Then, if appropriate, they will create a custom nightguard to protect your teeth from the damage caused by nighttime grinding and clenching. A nightguard will frequently alleviate many of the symptoms bruxism causes. Of course, if your teeth are damaged because of bruxism, or if TMJ has become an issue, then we will treat those conditions, too.
Contact Our Office Today
If you suspect or know that you are grinding and clenching your teeth, don’t hesitate in calling Pasadena Family Dentistry in Pasadena, TX. Drs. Holmes and Revel and their staff are waiting to help. Our office conveniently serves patients in South Houston, La Porte, Deer Park, Clear Lake and Channelview.