If you are experiencing strange headaches or jaw pain that you cannot explain, you may want to examine your oral habits to determine the cause. Some dental issues can cause those symptoms, with bruxism (teeth grinding) in particular leading to both of those forms of discomfort from the constant pressure. Grinding your teeth can actually take a heavy toll on your oral health by interfering with your bite or wearing out your teeth. If you think your teeth grinding is becoming a problem, schedule an appointment with us so we can determine a solution.
How Do You Know if You Have Bruxism?
Bruxism may not be a problem unless you are habitually clenching your teeth, which is when symptoms are most likely to occur. Besides grinding or clenching your teeth, headaches, and jaw pain, you may also experience:
- Teeth that have become worn down, fractured, or loose—The last two can be a dental emergency, so if you have a badly cracked tooth or one of your permanent teeth is loose, come to the office as soon as possible.
- Tooth sensitivity
- Tired jaw muscles
- Locked jaw—Your jaw not being able to open or close all the way is another good reason to see us or your regular doctor.
Treatment Options
While you may need an appliance to help your bruxism, or require some other treatment, there are at-home treatments you can try first to help you reduce clenching so you don’t cause permanent harm to your teeth. These options include:
- Reducing stress—stress and anxiety can cause you to clench your teeth unconsciously, so you can practice certain techniques, such as exercising, to relieve your stress.
- Avoid caffeine or other stimulants at night.
- Drink lots of water
- Attend your regularly scheduled dental appointments—We can monitor your symptoms to see if you need further treatment.
ABOUT YOUR SOUTHLAKE FAMILY DENTISTS:
As a native Texan, Gregory Wright, DDS, opened his private practice in Southlake, TX in 1992. He and Dr. Victoria Heron are happily accepting new patients from Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, Trophy Club, Colleyville, and all surrounding communities. To learn more, call our office today at (817) 481-7999.
