Are you a bruxer? What is bruxing anyway?

Tooth grinding, medically known as bruxism, is a common dental condition that involves the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep. This habit can lead to a range of dental and health issues if left untreated.

Clenching is worsened by stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, and misaligned teeth. Grinding can exert excessive pressure on teeth, wearing down the enamel and causing chips or fractures. Additionally, jaw muscles become strained, leading to jaw joint disorders and resulting in jaw pain, headaches, and even earaches!

What do Elation Dental check when investigating tooth grinding?

Identifying bruxism is essential for timely intervention. Some signs to watch for include worn-down teeth, flattened tooth surfaces, increased tooth sensitivity, sore jaw muscles, and dull headaches. Your partner may also notice the grinding sound during sleep.

We’ll do a thorough dental examination, inspecting teeth and fillings for signs of wear. X-rays might be taken to assess the extent of damage and rule out other potential causes.

Click here to make an online appointment at Elation Dental, 111 Bayswater Road Croydon South Vic 3136!

What treatments for jaw clenching are available?

One common approach is the use of a nightguard or grinding splint –  a custom-made dental appliance that is worn during sleep. This prevents direct tooth-to-tooth contact, reducing the impact of grinding and protecting the teeth from further damage. Nightguards also reduce strain on the jaw muscles and can significantly reduce associated discomfort. The more you grind, the more the night guard will wear down – they usually need replacement after a few years.

How do we make a dental grinding night guard?

Each nightguard is individually made for each patient. We use an intraoral digital scanner to construct a 3D model of your teeth! In the old days, dentists used a big mouthful of goo to take a plaster cast of your jaw – we usually don’t do this anymore!

Regular follow-ups with Elation Dental are crucial to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. Over time, we will evaluate the effectiveness of the chosen approach and make recommendations accordingly. If bruxism is severe and causing extensive damage, more advanced treatments such as dental crowns, inlays, or onlays might be required to restore the teeth’s shape and strength.

 

Click here to make an online appointment at Elation Dental, 111 Bayswater Road Croydon South Vic 3136!

 

In conclusion, tooth grinding or bruxism can have far-reaching consequences for dental health and overall well-being. Recognizing the signs of bruxism and seeking prompt dental intervention are essential steps to prevent further damage and alleviate associated discomfort. Dentists are well-equipped to diagnose the condition, determine its underlying causes, and provide tailored treatment solutions. From the use of nightguards to stress management techniques and orthodontic treatments, dentists offer a range of interventions to address bruxism’s diverse causes and effects. By working closely with a dentist and following their recommendations, individuals can restore their dental health and enjoy a more comfortable, pain-free life.