When building a foundation for a healthy body, people traditionally focus on exercise, nutritious foods and the occasional doctor visit. Although mouth health tends to be overlooked in the process, it can make a profound difference on how you feel in other aspects of life. More commonly known as teeth grinding, bruxism is one mouth malady that should not go untreated.
Those who suffer from bruxism typically clench their teeth during the day or grind teeth at night when they sleep – also known as sleep bruxism. The bruxism causes are varied, but you can watch for certain symptoms if you think you may have it.
Bruxism has many symptoms that are similar to those of other conditions. Consult your Toledo dentist if you are concerned about:
It is not known for certain what gives way to bruxism, but both physical and psychological causes are often linked to teeth-grinding. Sleep issues are some of the most common. Snoring, sleep talking and even a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea, can play a role in developing sleep bruxism. Sleep apnea is a unique condition that affects the breathing process; be sure to see your doctor for Bruxism diagnosis and treatment.
If you suspect you suffer from bruxism, start listing any symptoms and call attention to them at your next dental appointment with Dr. Natalie Nechvatal. She may want to perform a full exam to confirm any symptoms or signs for sure, and then determine the reasons they have occurred. In the interim, she may prescribe a mouth guard to relieve any damage already done from grinding or perform a dental procedure to correct any problems related to tooth alignment. Discussing stress reduction methods is another option if you have not undertaken them.
In the Toledo area and experiencing symptoms of bruxism? Contact Light Touch Dental Care to schedule your next checkup.
