It goes without saying that there are countless factors out there that can pose a threat to your smile’s health, and unfortunately, there are not that many natural protections for it. Indeed, from the moment you are born and well into adulthood, your grin is constantly fending off harmful oral bacteria that cause common concerns such as tooth decay and gum disease. Bear in mind, however, that these are not the only concerns out there, and nontraditional circumstances can affect you as well. In today’s blog, your Auburn Hills, MI dentist discusses the impact of chronic teeth grinding and how it can lead to even bigger issues down the line.
Unconscious Clenching
Have you ever awoken with a sore or tense jaw? It can be easy to pass this off as just a result of sleeping in an odd position, but the truth of the matter is, this can be indicative of nighttime bruxism. Indeed, bruxism is the name given to chronic teeth grinding, and it is characterized by tightly clenching one’s teeth together and proceeding to move the lower jaw from side to side.
As a person experiences bruxism, his or her teeth can become significantly damaged in a number of ways. For example, the constant friction can cause your protective layer of enamel to wear down. This then increases your chances of enduring a dental infection, as your teeth become weaker and more vulnerable. Additionally, teeth grinding can cause your teeth to become more brittle, leading to increased chances of cracking and chipping down the line. To learn more about this process, contact our team today.
Developing TMJ Disorder
In addition to weakened structures and increased chances of infection, untreated bruxism can lead to a dangerous jaw disorder known as TMJ disorder. When a person develops TMJ disorder, his or her lower mandible has become misaligned with one or both of the joints at which it hinges to his or her skull. These joints are known as the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), and misalignment can cause significant damage. In fact, some telltale signs include an incessant popping or clicking sensation in the jaw, pain or difficulty when opening the mouth, and tissue damage. Contact our team to learn more about this process today.
Understanding Your Options
Though bruxism and TMJ disorder are certainly not favorable conditions, all hope is not lost, as there is treatment that can help. For example, our team can help set you up with a TMJ appliance that gradually helps guide the lower jaw back into place. We may also help provide an oral appliance that can protect your teeth from bruxism.
Learn More Today
To learn more about ways you can protect your smile from TMJ disorder, contact Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI by calling 248-852-1820 and schedule your appointment today.
