Do You Have This Common Condition?
Do you wake in the morning and feel a tightness or discomfort in your jaw or facial muscles? Do you find yourself clenching your teeth during times of stress or anxiety? If this sounds like you, you might be suffering from a common condition that can leave you feeling less than your best. If this sounds like you or a loved one, continue reading to learn more about this condition and how to find relief.
What is Bruxism?
If you have been waking in the morning with discomfort in your jaw or you notice that your teeth feel more sensitive, you may be experiencing the effects of bruxism. Bruxism is a term used to describe a condition where people grind or clench their teeth unconsciously. Although it can happen at any time of day, bruxism is commonly experienced during sleep. Many patients are often alerted to this condition by a loved one or their dentist after a routine appointment. Extreme wear on the teeth is one of the main signs of bruxism. Since many patients remain unaware that they suffer from this condition, it is important to be mindful of the warning signs:
- Jaw muscles that are tight or uncomfortable
- Popping or clicking when you open your mouth
- Discomfort in the face
- Damaged teeth
- Frequent headaches
- Swollen appearance to the face near the mouth and jaw
Benefit of a Nightguard
It is important to get teeth grinding and clenching under control because it can seriously damage your oral health. Severely worn teeth need to be replaced before further damage is caused to the mouth. The additional pressure on the teeth can also cause otherwise healthy teeth to crack and break. We recommend a customized nightguard to help when you sleep. A night guard can:
- Minimize tooth wear from clenching and grinding
- Reduce stress on the jaw muscles
- Alleviate discomfort for better sleep
If you are located in the Spotswood, NJ area and suffer from bruxism or are concerned about the wear on your teeth from clenching, be sure to contact our office to schedule an appointment. We can evaluate your situation and determine if a customized night guard is the best fit for you. We look forward to seeing you soon.