Do you Grind your Teeth?

Are you concerned about grinding teeth and jaw pain? Grinding or clenching teeth is also known as bruxism. Grinding is sliding teeth back and forth over each other. Clenching is when you hold your top and bottom teeth tightly together. Both grinding and clenching can damage teeth and cause facial or jaw pain.

Symptoms of bruxism include:

• Headache or earache
• Sore jaw
• Jaw clicking
• Frequent toothaches
• Sensitive teeth
• Facial pain
• Worn or cracked teeth
• Insomnia

Bruxism can be caused by many different things and should be diagnosed by your dentist. Once your dentist diagnoses the problem, they will work with you to outline a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and concerns. Some treatments that may be recommended include stress management, nightguards while sleeping, medication for pain, jaw exercises to relax the muscles, and dental treatments to fix any damage to your teeth.

If you have any questions or concerns about grinding or clenching your teeth be sure to check with your dentist or ask Dr. Douglas Barden at your next visit in our Whitefish Bay office.

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