Do you grind your teeth? You're not alone. Teeth grinding is a common condition that can affect people of all ages. While some people only grind their teeth occasionally, it can be a chronic problem for others.
If you're a teeth grinder, you may be wondering what causes this condition and how you can get rid of it. Read on to learn more about teeth grinding.
Causes of Teeth Grinding
Many different factors can contribute to teeth grinding. Some of the most common include stress, misaligned teeth, sleep disorders and side effects from certain medications. If you notice that you grind your teeth more when you're under a lot of stress, then it's important to find ways to reduce your stress level. This may involve exercise, relaxation techniques or counseling.
If your teeth are misaligned, this can also contribute to grinding. In some cases, orthodontic treatment can correct the alignment of the teeth and alleviate the problem. If you have sleep apnea, you should also take steps to get treated for this as well since untreated sleep disorders are associated with teeth grinding.
Treatment for Teeth Grinding
If you grind your teeth on a regular basis, it's important to see your dentist so they can assess the damage and recommend treatment options. In some cases, a night guard may be recommended. A night guard is a custom-fit mouthguard that is worn while you sleep. It helps to protect the teeth from damage caused by grinding and also prevents clenching of the jaw, which can lead to headaches and other problems.
For some people, teeth grinding can become a chronic condition that leads to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. In more advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem. The goal of TMJ surgery is to alleviate pain and restore normal function to the jaw. However, it should only be considered as a final resort after all other options have been exhausted. In most cases, TMJ surgery successfully relieves pain and restores normal jaw function. However, there is always a risk of complications, such as infection or nerve damage.
Conclusion
Teeth grinding is a common condition that can cause serious damage to the teeth if left untreated. If you think you may be experiencing this condition, it's essential to see your dentist so they can recommend the best course of treatment for you. For more advice, visit your local dentist today.
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