Teeth Grinding

Read more about the article Prevent Teeth Grinding

Prevent Teeth Grinding

Grinding teeth, called bruxism, may develop at any age. It is usually done unconsciously in sleep, but it can also occur when a person is awake.

Causes

Stress, anxiety, smoking, heavy alcohol, caffeine, depression and sleep disorders are all possible causes of teeth grinding.  Bruxism is found more frequently in people who snore or suffer from obstructive sleep and in people whose lifestyle includes smoking, drinking alcohol and caffeine.

Treatment

The treatment for teeth grinding depends on its cause, which is evaluated by dentist with a comprehensive exam.

  • One way to protect your teeth and prevent tooth wear and fracture is to wear an occlusal appliance – such as, splints, bite guards, night guards, bite plates and bruxism appliances. These are custom made, plastic mouth pieces that fit over your top or bottom teeth. Wearing one of these appliances will help reduce jaw muscle pain and protect your teeth. The appliances are usually worn at bedtime.
  • If anxiety or stress is believed to be the cause of your grinding, then behavioural management is an option. Relaxation techniques, meditation and psychoanalysis can help manage the stress and anxiety.
  • If your bruxism is due to physical problems such as misaligned or broken teeth, your general dentist may have some suggestions for how to correct these problems with dental crowns or braces, or other techniques that may help resolve the grinding.
  • Stimulants and depressants have also been linked to various sleep disorders. Limit caffeine and alcohol to avoid developing a habit of teeth grinding.
  • If you’re grinding your teeth during the day, make yourself aware of when it happens and train yourself not to clench your jaw.
  • It may also be a side effect of some medications. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects before taking prescription drugs.
  • Limit chewy foods that give your jaw a workout, especially when jaw discomfort is at its worst.

If you’re still not sure what’s causing you to grind your teeth, see your general dentist. Not only will your general dentist help you find the solution to your problem, but regular dental visits will allow your general dentist to check for its signs and help you control it before the damage gets out of hand.

Our Score
Click to rate this post!
[Total: 0 Average: 0]
Read more about the article Bad Habits That Destroy Smile

Bad Habits That Destroy Smile

Maintenance of your teeth is a lifelong process. And if you add some bad habits into this equation, it can make the whole process even more difficult. You should eliminate the following habits from your life if you want to maintain a healthy smile.

  • Consumption of soda – Too much consumption of soda leaves a constant coating of sugar and acids on your teeth throughout the day. This then slowly build up over time and starts eating away at your teeth. Regardless of whether it is regular or diet soda, it is best to stay away from these fizzy drinks if you want to prevent cavities.
  • Chewing ice – Chewing ice is considered to be one of the biggest causes of chipped or cracked teeth in people.
  • Teeth grinding – Teeth grinding will eventually wear down your teeth. If you have the habit of grinding your teeth at night, try putting on a mouth guard and then going to sleep.
  • Hard candy – These sugary substances tend to coat your teeth. It then combines with the plaque to form an acid which then slowly eats away your teeth.
  • Not flossing – Not flossing your teeth is also considered to be a bad oral habit. Daily flossing helps to clear the plaque in between your teeth which can then prevent gum diseases.
  • Sports drinks – Sports drinks tend to have as much sugar as sodas. So even if the advertising says they are healthy, they are actually not. So just like sodas, try to limit your consumption of sports drinks.
  • Opening things with your teeth – If you open things like bottle caps with your teeth, they will eventually lead to your teeth being chipped or cracked.
  • Brushing too soon after eating – Brushing your teeth too soon after eating or drinking beverages such as soda or wine, can cause damage, because you are essentially rubbing softened enamel away. Instead, you should rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic beverages and then brush after 30 minutes.
  • Failure to replace toothbrush in time – Older toothbrushes lose the majority of their effectiveness, and tend to harbor infectious bacterial growth over time. It’s recommended that toothbrushes be replaced at every 3 months. It’s also important to dispose and replace your toothbrush after any sickness or cold.
  • Use of hard-bristled toothbrush – A stiff or hard-bristled toothbrush may cause damage to your gums, especially when paired with aggressive brushing habits.

Get in touch with a dental hygienist to know more about dental care.

Our Score
Click to rate this post!
[Total: 0 Average: 0]