Are You Experiencing Bruxism? Read This Guide

Author: Frank Meshkani

Are you feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? You’re not alone… Recent statistics revealed by the Australian Psychological Society says, "One in four of us reportedly experience "moderate to severe" levels of stress." If you don’t believe in this fact, just take a look around you, you will definitely see nearly 3 out 5 persons feeling stressed or tensed.

Being tensed not only affects us emotionally but also physically as well. Stress can wreak havoc on our wellbeing, and one side effect with long term repercussions is when we start to grind our teeth on a regular basis. Teeth grinding is also called as Bruxism.

What is Bruxism?

Also called as Teeth Grinding, Bruxism puts our teeth through extra wear and tear while we sleep which we will most likely to be completely unaware of it. It can also be occur when you are awake. Do you ever notice yourself placing your teeth together and apply force through a contraction of the jaw muscles? Then, you might also be a victim of teeth grinding.

Teeth Grinding Symptoms

There are many teeth grinding symptoms associated with and they may include:

  • Flat, or dull teeth
  • Earaches
  • Tooth pain
  • Chronic pain in the mouth or ear area
  • Worn-out tooth enamel
  • Damage to insides of cheeks
  • Tongue indentations
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Jaw pain
  • Wear spots on teeth

When to See a Dentist or Doctor

See your dentist or doctor if you have any of the symptoms listed above or you have any other concerns about your teeth or jaw. If you notice your child is grinding his or her teeth, get an appointment with your nearby emergency dentist in Penrith.

Factors Increase Your Risk of Bruxism

  • Increased anxiety and stress level
  • Having personality type that’s aggressive, competitive or hyperactive can increase your risk of bruxism.
  • Habits like smoking tobacco, drinking caffeinated beverages or alcohol, or using recreational drugs may increase the risk of bruxism

Treatment for Teeth Grinding

The treatment for teeth grinding entirely depends on the cause. Is it due to a sleep apnea disorder, lifestyle factors or stress and anxiety? It is important to have your dentist evaluate you with a comprehensive exam and develop a treatment plan that is specialised for you.

The best way to protect your teeth grinding is to wear guard. These guards have different names such as bite plates, night guards, bruxism appliances etc. These are custom made, specially fitted plastic mouth pieces that fit over your top or bottom teeth.

Putting an end to grinding and clenching of your teeth requires an evaluation by your emergency dentist or by an oral surgeon. Unfortunately, there is no require for bruxism, but fortunately it can be managed by getting help from the experienced yet certified dentist in Penrith.

The author is an experienced writer who likes to write and publish articles and blogs related to dental hygiene and oral tips. In this article, he explains more about Bruxism and says when to see your emergency dentist in Penrith. For more details, visit http://www.penrithdentalclinic.com.au