Is your jaw frequently sore? If so, this could be a sign that you are grinding your teeth. Generally an unconscious habit, teeth grinding will often occur during sleep and may continue to be undetected until a tooth breaks as a result of the continual strain. There are, however, some symptoms listed below that you can look for to tell you if you may have a teeth grinding habit. In addition, your Milford general dentist, Dr. Mitchell I. Quintner, will examine your teeth for signs of bruxism (teeth grinding) during dental checkups. As teeth grinding wears teeth down over time, teeth may appear smaller or flattened, warning signs that will prompt Dr. Quintner to intervene with special treatment.
Three Signs That May Indicate Bruxism
- A sore or popping jaw. When you grind your teeth, much of the strain is felt by the teeth themselves as they slide forcefully against one another. However, teeth are not alone in feeling the effects of bruxism. The jaw joints, or temporomandibular joints (TMJs), also come under strain from teeth grinding. Accordingly, a sore or popping jaw accompanies many cases of bruxism.
- Recurring sensitivities in your teeth. The repetitive stress that teeth experience will make itself known eventually. Oftentimes, teeth will become sensitive, sometimes for several days at a time. In other cases, teeth may be sensitive more often in the mornings. Whatever your symptoms, be sure to report recurring sensitivities to your Milford general dentist, Dr. Quintner.
- Frequent headaches. As noted above, the TMJs suffer as a result of bruxism. Unfortunately, when the TMJs are strained, a disorder known as TMD may develop. TMD is a debilitating condition with symptoms that include frequent headaches, jaw pain, facial pain, earaches, and even migraines.
Bruxism Treatment in Milford
If Dr. Quintner determines that you are grinding your teeth, he is likely to suggest that you wear a sleep guard. A device similar to a mouthguard, a sleep guard prevents teeth from sliding against one another during sleep. It thus, protects teeth from the potential damage that bruxism can inflict upon them.
Sensitive Care Cosmetic & Family Dentistry is proud to serve the Milford area. Patients can contact our office at 203-878-6699 to schedule an appointment or a consultation.