Is Teeth Grinding A Problem?

Have you been told by a family member that they often hear a strange grinding noise when you sleep? If so, you may be clenching and grinding your teeth. The technical term for this issue is bruxism. Many patients are unaware they experience this problem because it occurs during sleep. The only way people know they grind their teeth is when they are told by a loved one or we mention it during their routine examination. If left untreated, teeth grinding can lead to serious oral health problems.

Problems Caused by Teeth Grinding and Clenching

Teeth grinding and clenching can cause serious problems that negatively affect your oral health. It is very common for people who grind their teeth to have severely worn and flattened teeth. The tooth enamel, which is the outer covering of the teeth, becomes damaged from wear and tear, which can lead to problems such as tooth sensitivity and discomfort. It is also common for these patients to experience cracked and chipped teeth from the continuous pressure.

If you notice that you are suddenly having issues with sensitivity or feel ridges on your teeth, we recommend getting your teeth checked as soon as possible. We see most of our patients so infrequently during the year that it is important that they regularly inspect their teeth for changes or issues at home.

You can feel sensitivity, but it may be hard to notice cracks in your teeth, especially if they are the rear molars. Patients who suffer from clenching and grinding and do not improve this problem typically experience recurring dental problems. Continuous problems can lead to the need for more extensive treatment, such as dental crowns and even tooth extractions.

If you feel you may be suffering from clenching and grinding or are experiencing one of the problems mentioned above, we recommend calling our office, which is located in Spotswood, NJ, to schedule an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you soon!