5 Bad Things that can Happen if You Grind Your Teeth

Waking up with a sore jaw, dull headache or earache are all tell-tale warning signs of bruxism, better known as teeth grinding.  Bruxism is widespread, affecting 15% of the overall adult population.

Bruxism is also very common in children, with some estimates of up to 50% of kids grinding their teeth at some point during childhood. Treatment, however, is not really recommended, according to Dr. Theodore Wu of Blue Back Dental in West Hartford, Connecticut.

 According to Dr. Wu, kids’ mouths are growing and changing so much and they’re losing teeth, a good mouth guard is hard to fit due to these changes, and they may stop grinding any time. For children who brux between the ages of 3 and 10, most will stop by the time they reach age 13.

Experts believe daily stress may trigger the jaw clenching and forceful sliding of the teeth against each other. Night time bruxing is a central nervous system reaction that recent literature suggests is not an effect of stress, Dr. Wu tells Family First.

If left untreated, teeth grinding can lead to various oral health problems including:

• Damaged teeth
• Broken fillings
• Jaw joint problems, including TMJ
• Headaches
• Tooth sensitivity and mobility

“It’s an extremely common condition seen in any dental practice,” said Dr. Edward Molyneaux, of Blue Back Dental in a recent press release.  “I will often notice prominent signs of wear on the teeth in patients who suffer from bruxism.”

For adults who grind due to stress, the problem often persists.

 “It is important that bruxism is addressed as early as possible to prevent prolonged damage,” said Dr. Molyneaux.  “We see big drops in teeth wear in patients who take action and pursue treatment.” Dr. Wu noted that your dentist will be able to diagnose bruxism and help you get treatment.

 Blue Back Dental has found the use of night guards to be the most effective treatment for bruxism.  The guards are custom molded bite pads worn at night during sleep.  These guards are usually made of high-grade plastic and should fit the teeth and mouth perfectly.  In some extreme cases, when people experience clenching problems while awake, day guards are also recommended.

 Dr. Wu says most mouth guards will last 3-5 years, with nightly use and good care. Mouth guards reposition the jaw joint into a relaxed position when you are sleeping and makes the grinding stop.

 About Blue Back Dental

Blue Back Dental specializes in preventive, restorative dentistry and cosmetic dental services, employing the latest technology and techniques within the industry.   Its team of highly trained dentists and staff is dedicated to providing a professional, yet relaxed, office atmosphere in a gentle, personalized, family manner. For more information, including free bridal teeth brightening, visit www.bluebackdental.com or call 860.233.9300.