Bruxism, also called tooth grinding, refers to clenching or grinding your teeth. Over 25 million adult Americans grind their teeth or clench their jaw, mostly while sleeping. Patients with bruxism may clench their teeth throughout the day without realizing it, or grind their teeth while they sleep.
Bruxism, while you sleep, is a sleep disorder that can be severe if left untreated. More often than not, people who clench their teeth while they sleep may also have other sleep disorders like sleep apnea.
For some people, bruxism is mild enough not to require treatment. However, in other cases, bruxism can result in headaches, weakened teeth, jaw pain, and more. If you have bruxism, you may be unaware, so it's essential to understand the signs of bruxism and when to seek medical attention. At Modern Dentistry of St. Cloud, we treat all types of oral health disorders, so our patients can feel comfortable and pain-free.
Common Signs of Bruxism
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Teeth are chipped, worn down, or fractured
- Enamel erosion, which can lead to tooth decay
- Tooth pain
- Sensitive teeth
- Painful jaw joint
- Locked jaw that won't open or close completely
- Neck or face pain
- Headaches
- Lack of sleep
Factors That Cause Bruxism
While there are many reasons why bruxism develops, the most common are:
- Age
- Anxiety
- Hyperactivity
- Medication
- Genetics
Your Dentist in St. Cloud Can Help
If you're searching online for a "dentist near me in the 34772" area, we are available to help heal many oral health concerns. Dr. Yang Hua can go over your symptoms and examine your jaw and mouth. We use a variety of modern dental technologies to improve the quality of our patient's experience. From digital x-rays to intraoral cameras, we provide first-rate equipment that can get you in and out of the dentist's chair in no time.
Do you think you have bruxism? Your St. Cloud, FL dental office can help diagnose and treat your dental issues. Your dentist is always available to treat you and your family; please let us know of any symptoms you may have or any other abnormal pain during your dental cleaning. Alternatively, you can always give us a call to book an appointment.