Teeth grinding is a problem that should not be overlooked. Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding is a serious problem that will cause the enamel to wear out over time and cause fracturing, loosening, loss of tooth or other complications, such as hearing loss and TMJ. Hence, it is important to learn how to relax the mind and body on the onset of teeth grinding so you don’t end up in a more serious and complicated predicament.
How to Tell If You Are Grinding Your Teeth?
Grinding mostly takes place during sleep and most people are not aware that they grind their teeth. If you have a constant dull headache or a sore jaw then you can be sure that these symptoms are great indicators of bruxism.
It is very important to see your dentist in Los Angeles as quickly as possible so he or she can make a mouth guard to protect your teeth. With severe, chronic grinding one might need a bridge, crown, root canal, implants or even partial denture to remedy the problem. An important factor that contributes to teeth grinding amongst an abnormal bite, missing or crooked teeth is stress. People normally do clench or grind their teeth time to time but when done severely, especially at night and if help is not seeked, it can result in changing the appearance of your face.
There are daily precautions you can take to help alleviate grinding. Avoiding caffeinated drinks like cola and coffee and foods like chocolate that contain caffeine. Alcohol tends to intensify grinding after consumption. Avoid chewing gum because it allows the jaw muscles to get used to clenching more which will make you grind more. Once you become conscious of the fact that you are a grinder, you can train yourself to break the habit by relaxing your jaw muscles by placing the tip of your tongue between the upper teeth for ten seconds. This helps alleviate the contracted muscles and relax them. You can do this as many times as needed.
Bruxism should not be taken lightly and your dentist should be contacted immediately to remedy it as soon as possible because the aftermath, if not treated, is going to be worse than one might think.
For more information or to find a location near you please visit www.crystaldentalcenters.com.
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