Grinding your teeth at night is hardly something you have control over; you’re asleep after all. But that’s not to say you’re off the hook. Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can rear its ugly head while you’re awake too and is usually accompanied by habitual clenching.
Teeth Grinding and TMJ
Habitually grinding your teeth inevitably leads to tooth erosion. As teeth’ surface wears away, they often do so unevenly and crack or break in jagged, uneven patterns. This accelerated wearing down of teeth disrupts bite alignment, leaving people’s resting bite position unbalanced and their temporomandibular joint bearing additional strain. TMJ strain eventually causes inflammation and leads to symptoms consistent with TMJ disorder.
The After Effects of Grinding
Grinding your teeth and regularly clenching, even if it’s subconscious, can spell trouble for dental health and cause complications for adjacent muscle groups, posture, and chronic pain.
The after-effects of bruxism can include:
- Flattened, fractured, chipped, or loose teeth
- Worn tooth enamel, exposing deeper layers of teeth
- Increased tooth pain or sensitivity
- Tired or tight jaw muscles and the potential for lockjaw
- Jaw, neck, or face pain or soreness
- Dull pain starting in the temples
- Interrupted sleep, either due to the sound of teeth grinding or from soreness
While many of these symptoms are directly related to the teeth engaged in the grinding act, several involve pain or soreness in the nearby systems associated with TMJ disorder.
When Should You See A Doctor?
One of the most important things we can do for our health is to be present and aware of our bodies. Life can be hectic and leave you not making time for yourself or focusing on the next thing in your day. Something Dr. Marzban advocates for is the practice of dental self-exams.
In her article in the Washingtonian, Dr. Marzban lays out the following steps for the process:
- Go to a mirror
- Pull the cheeks and lips back
- Have a close look
It’s as simple as that. If something doesn’t look right, it’s time to schedule an appointment with our team of dental experts.
Teeth Grinding and TMJ Pain Treatment in Burke, VA
Dr. Pamela Marzban has years of experience treating patients suffering from TMJ disorders. Her knowledge and cutting-edge approach to dentistry relieve patients’ pain and put them on track to long-term solutions. For more information on bruxism and teeth grinding-related TMJ pain, contact Dr. Pamela Marzban’s office at 703-323-8200.
