BruxismDo you experience jaw pain throughout the day? Have you been noticing tightness in your jaw muscles and joints? If these symptoms sound familiar, you may suffer from teeth grinding, clinically known as bruxism. Teeth grinding is a condition in which the surfaces of your teeth grind against each other, usually while you are asleep. However, it is possible to suffer from teeth grinding during your waking hours. If you are a sleep grinder, you may not even realize that the condition afflicts you until you start to have side effects. If you’re concerned that you may grind your teeth, Houston dentist, Dr. Deborah Gennero is a consultation away.

Causes of Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding is one of those ailments where the medical community is able to speculate cause, but there are still question marks. Possibly caused by psychological issues which you are completely unaware of, there are physical reasons for teeth grinding as well. Some behaviors or issues most likely related to teeth grinding include anxiety, stress, heavy caffeine consumption, pent up anger or emotions, malocclusion (a misaligned bite), missing teeth, or a crooked smile.

Bruxism Treatment

Dr. Gennero can determine whether you’re prone to grinding your teeth when she examines you at your six month dental checkups. Evidence of bruxism includes a worn down look to tooth enamel and dentin. Teeth which are chipped, cracked, or flattened for no obvious reason are tell-tale signs of grinding teeth. In addition to headaches and joint pain, teeth grinding also increases tooth sensitivity. Possible treatments may include a mouthguard which you wear at night, while you sleep. With continuous wear, your teeth won’t endure as much damage.

Visit your Houston Dentist

If you believe the jaw pain you’ve been experiencing is an indication of teeth grinding, then visit your 77084 dentist. She can examine your mouth and teeth to confirm your suspicions and begin a treatment plan immediately. To schedule an appointment, call our office at (281) 578-6200. You can also visit our website to view our services, print patient forms, and learn tips about everyday dental care. Dr. Gennero and our friendly staff gladly treat patients in Clear Lake, The Woodlands, Katy, Sugarland, and surrounding cities.