Do you wake up with a sore jaw or dull headache? Have your loved ones mentioned you make grinding sounds in your sleep? You might be experiencing bruxism, a common but often overlooked dental condition. At our Clyde dental practice, Dr. Aric Kuehner helps patients identify, manage, and treat teeth grinding to protect your smile and improve your quality of life.
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding or clenching. This condition affects millions of Americans and can occur during the day or while you sleep. Many people with sleep bruxism aren’t even aware they’re doing it until complications develop or a sleep partner points it out.
The grinding action can put tremendous pressure on your teeth. Pressure that’s up to 250 pounds of force per square inch. That’s enough pressure to crack nuts or damage dental work, which explains why untreated bruxism can lead to serious dental problems over time.
Signs You Might Have Bruxism
Not sure if you’re grinding your teeth? Look for these common warning signs:
- dull, constant headaches, especially in the morning
- Sore jaw or facial muscles when you wake up
- Teeth that appear flat, chipped, or worn down
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Tight or tired jaw muscles
- Pain that feels like an earache (though your ears are fine)
- Disrupted sleep; tooth indentations on your tongue or cheek
- Clicking or popping sounds in your jaw joint
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, Dr. Kuehner can examine your teeth for signs of grinding during your next visit to our Clyde dental office.
What Causes Teeth Grinding?
Bruxism doesn’t have a single cause. Instead, several factors can contribute to this condition. One of the most common triggers for teeth grinding is emotional stress. Many people clench their jaw when feeling anxious, tense, or frustrated. Sleep bruxism is considered a sleep-related movement disorder and often occurs alongside conditions like sleep apnea or snoring.
Various lifestyle factors can increase your risk of bruxism. Alcohol consumption, smoking, caffeine, and recreational drugs have all been linked to increased teeth grinding and clenching. Certain psychiatric medications, including some antidepressants, can trigger teeth grinding as a side effect.
When your teeth don’t line up properly (malocclusion), it can sometimes lead to bruxism as your jaw tries to find a comfortable position. Bruxism is also common in young children but usually goes away by adolescence.
Why Treating Bruxism Matters
Left untreated, teeth grinding can lead to several serious complications. The constant grinding wears down your tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity, chips, cracks, and even tooth loss in severe cases. Bruxism puts excessive stress on your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jawbone to your skull. This can lead to TMJ disorders, causing pain and limiting jaw movement.
Severe, long-term bruxism can change the appearance of your face as jaw muscles enlarge from constant use. Both you and your sleep partner may experience poor sleep quality due to the noise and movement associated with grinding. Chronic teeth grinding often leads to tension headaches and facial pain that can affect your daily activities.
How Dr. Kuehner Treats Bruxism in Clyde, OH
At our dental practice, Dr. Aric Kuehner offers several effective treatments for bruxism. The most common treatment is a custom-fitted night guard that provides a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. Unlike over-the-counter options, our custom guards are precisely designed for your mouth, providing superior comfort and protection.
If your bruxism is related to misaligned teeth, Dr. Kuehner might recommend correcting your bite through treatments like reshaping the chewing surfaces of teeth or using crowns to repair damage. Since stress is a major contributor to bruxism, Dr. Kuehner may suggest stress-reduction techniques or refer you to specialists who can help address underlying anxiety.
If sleep apnea is suspected as a contributing factor, Dr. Kuehner may recommend a sleep study to address both conditions simultaneously.
Self-Care Tips for Managing Bruxism
While professional treatment is essential, self-care strategies can help reduce teeth grinding. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, especially before bedtime. Apply a warm compress to your jaw muscles before sleep to help them relax. Limit caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evening, as they can worsen teeth grinding.
During the day, be conscious of your jaw position. The correct position is lips together, teeth apart, with your tongue resting lightly on the roof of your mouth. Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and may decrease bruxism.
Why Choose Dr. Kuehner for Bruxism Treatment?
Dr. Aric Kuehner brings years of experience treating bruxism to our Clyde dental practice. He understands that each case is unique and will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. Our team uses the latest techniques and materials to create comfortable, durable night guards that effectively protect your teeth.
We believe in addressing not just the symptoms but also the underlying causes of your bruxism. Dr. Kuehner takes the time to discuss potential triggers and lifestyle factors that might be contributing to your teeth grinding.
Schedule Your Bruxism Consultation Today
Don’t let teeth grinding damage your smile or disrupt your sleep. If you suspect you have bruxism, contact our Clyde dental office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Aric Kuehner. Early intervention can prevent serious complications and help you enjoy better oral health and overall well-being.
Call us today to take the first step toward a grinding-free future!