765-348-4111 Did you know that unconsciously clenching your teeth, which is also known as bruxism, can occur while you’re sleeping or when you’re awake? Many people clench their teeth without realizing that they’re doing so. This is especially problematic if you clench your teeth while you’re sleeping.
With bruxism, you may have to cope with issues such as tooth decay, pain in your ear, and even tension headaches and migraines. Furthermore, you may chip, crack, or even fracture your teeth. Similarly, you may be damaging your enamel, which might make you more vulnerable to tooth decay.
There are a few symptoms you can watch for. As a result of teeth grinding, you may experience dull headaches, especially after waking up. Your mouth and muscles may frequently feel sore, and you may also experience pain in your ear, damage to the insides of your cheeks, and even indentations on your tongue.
The good news is, there are a number of things you can do to address bruxism. This may include reducing your stress levels, drinking more water, getting more sleep, and making a conscious effort to relax the facial muscles and jaw muscles throughout the day. Often, wearing a night guard can help with bruxism while you sleep.
If you’re interested in learning more about bruxism, please feel free to call Maddox Family Dental Center at 765-348-4111. Dr. Raymond Maddox and our team will be happy to answer any questions you may have. We’re eager to hear from you soon!