One of the most common sleep disorders is grinding the teeth, also known as bruxism. Although some grinding of your teeth is natural and will lead to no significant health concerns, chronic bruxism can develop and become a very serious problem to the shape, appearance and functionality of your teeth. Consult a Walnut Creek dentist immediately to determine whether you could be grinding your teeth away and how to prevent it from happening.
Researchers have classified bruxism as a habitual behavior and a sleep disorder but not a reflex. It is triggered by a number of subconscious stimuli while an individual is asleep. Nocturnal teeth grinding can be rhythmic like chewing or sustained like clenching the teeth together but either way it is doing noticeable as well as unperceivable damage to the teeth.
In the majority of cases, the sufferer of bruxism will not even know they have it. It is usually pointed out by a parent, spouse or sleeping partner. Bruxism wears down the enamel or hard outer protection of a tooth which leaves the delicate and tender inner tooth exposed. This shortens and blunts the teeth and affects chewing ability and capacity.
Factors which contribute to cases of bruxism include: smoking, drinking large amounts of alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, high levels of stress, disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, and many other possible causes.
Individuals suffering from bruxism may experience headaches, toothaches, insomnia, and a sore and painful jaw. There is no cure for bruxism at the moment but there are treatments. If you think yourself or someone you know has bruxism talk to a dentist or a specialist at Walnut Creek Dental for more information and possible treatments. Schedule an appointment today and take the weeping and wailing out of grinding your teeth and get the smile back that you have dreamed of.