Why Do I Grind My Teeth? & How to Protect Them

In this blog, we'll guide you on effective strategies to prevent and combat this worrisome habit, ensuring your dental health remains intact. 

 

Bruxism, which is the technical term for teeth grinding, silently affects many people, often without their knowledge, until a dentist identifies it. The subtle yet destructive motion of teeth grinding or clenching can result in visible tooth wear and cracks, alerting professionals to the condition. 

 

You may become aware of your teeth grinding habit through other telling symptoms such as sensitive teeth, soreness in your cheeks or temples, clicking or stiffness in the jaw joint, disrupted sleep, and even broken teeth or fillings. 

 

What concerns us the most is how bruxism can profoundly affect our patients' daily lives. Besides the visible dental issues, patients often complain of discomfort and poor sleep due to this condition. Addressing these concerns promptly is vital to prevent further damage and improve overall well-being. So, if you suspect you may be suffering from bruxism, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Park Dental for guidance and treatment. 

 

 

 

 

Teeth grinding can stem from various factors, including sleep disorders like snoring or Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), as well as stress and lifestyle habits such as smoking, high caffeine consumption or even excessive blue-light exposure before bedtime. 

 

Research indicates that stress and anxiety account for nearly 70% of all bruxism cases (The Bruxism Association). 

 

While we can provide appliances to help manage teeth grinding, we also encourage you to consider behavioural approaches. Avoiding known precipitators of bruxing and stress management techniques can be beneficial in alleviating daily stresses and, in turn, reducing bruxism episodes. Therefore, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of teeth grinding can lead to more effective and comprehensive treatment outcomes. 

 

 

 

 

At Park Dental, we offer effective treatment for bruxism through the use of an Occlusal Splint, also known as a night guard. Our skilled team can create a bespoke night guard for you, ensuring a perfect fit to wear while you sleep. By using the night guard, you can reduce teeth grinding and safeguard your precious teeth from premature wear and tear. 

 

Another recognised treatment option for bruxism involves Botox, known for its muscle-relaxing properties. Injecting a small amount of Botulinum Toxin A into the jaw's controlling muscles can reduce clenching and grinding. However, it's essential to note that this treatment requires repeating every 3-6 months, making it a more costly method for long-term bruxism support. 

 

In most cases, we recommend the night guard as the best option, providing an effective and cost-efficient solution to manage teeth grinding while promoting better dental health in the long run. Our goal is to find the most suitable treatment approach that fits your unique needs and ensures your continued well-being. 

 

 

 

 

Don't let bruxism damage your health; let us help you achieve optimal oral health and well-being so you can wake up to brighter days ahead. 

 

Feel free to get in touch with our warm and welcoming reception team at 0115 910 1447 to explore the ways we can support you. We are committed to promptly scheduling you an appointment that fits your schedule, ensuring you receive the assistance you need without delay. Your well-being is our top priority, and we're here to provide you with the best possible care and support.