Chicago Family Dentist

Many adults and children grind or clench their teeth at night. This is called bruxism but is more commonly referred to as teeth grinding. Not only does the condition frequently interfere with an individual’s ability to get a good night’s sleep, it also can cause permanent damage to a person’s teeth or mouth. 

One of the most common indicators of bruxism is sore facial muscles, headaches, and ear aches. The muscles throughout the head, face, and neck that are responsible for chewing also contribute to bruxism and teeth grinding. As a result of this dual role, these muscles will frequently feel sore the morning after particularly intense teeth grinding. 

In addition to the temporary pain of muscle soreness, bruxism can cause serious cosmetic damage to the teeth. The teeth can be worn down by grinding. This will shorten the length of teeth and cause significant cosmetic damage.

Another side effect of the grinding is sensitive teeth. The teeth will become more sensitive with time as the enamel on the tooth is worn away through grinding. This exposes the underlying layer of dentin and results in teeth that can be extremely sensitive to cold, pressure, and a variety of other stimuli.

The destructive forces of grinding can fracture teeth, destroy fillings, and even hurt the jaw itself.

Contact a Chicago Family Dentist

For more information on bruxism, teeth grinding, and treating this disorder, contact the Chicago family dentists of Advanced Family Dental Associates at 773-767-1554 to schedule an appointment or to discuss bruxism and its causes.