Why Do Some People Clench Their Teeth?

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Do you clench your jaw or grind your teeth? Also known as bruxism, this serious dental issue leads to damaged smiles and an increased risk of tooth decay and infection. Fortunately, your Livingston dentists, Dr. David Silverstrom and Dr. Gary Silverstrom, offer comfortable and minimally invasive treatment options for patients who clench their teeth.
The Causes and Symptoms of Bruxism
In the United States alone, over ten million people grind or clench their teeth. Many people only grind their teeth during sleep and may unaware they suffer from bruxism. Common symptoms to watch for include:
· Jaw and facial pain
· Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
· Headaches
· Toothaches
· Sharp pain when biting down or chewing
If you experience one or more of these symptoms on a persistent basis, see your Livingston dentists right away. Without treatment, clenching and grinding your teeth can wear away enamel or lead to chipped and cracked teeth. Soon, you may develop a dental abscess or infection, requiring a root canal or potentially, extraction. Your Livingston dentists offer a number of cosmetic and restorative options for repairing damaged teeth, including:
· Porcelain crowns
· Dental bonding
· Porcelain veneers
What causes a person to grind his/her teeth? Stress often leads to bruxism. In addition, malocclusion that occurs naturally or results from trauma may cause a person to grind their teeth. Clenching and grinding teeth also strains the jaw joints, leading to the onset of TMJ disorder.
Stop Clenching Your Teeth
How do you stop clenching your teeth? The first step involves scheduling a consultation with your Livingston dentists. After identifying the cause and assessing the severity of your bruxism, Dr. David or Gary Silverstrom will prescribe the appropriate treatment. For some, cutting back on stress and avoiding caffeine before bed can ease teeth grinding episodes. For other cases, Dr. David or Gary Silverstrom may recommend an oral appliance. Worn during sleep, this device prevents the upper and lower teeth from touching.
About Dr. David Silverstrom and Dr. Gary Silverstrom: The Silverstrom Dental Group provides the latest in comprehensive dental care for patients in Livingston, NJ and surrounding communities. To schedule an appointment, call (973) 797-9345.