Teeth grinding is unfortunately very common. Many people grind their teeth without even knowing that they are doing it. This is because teeth grinding generally happens while you are sleeping. Teeth grinding can be dangerous for your teeth and for your jaw. Here are a couple things that you need to know about teeth grinding.
Why Do People Grind Their Teeth?
Teeth grinding can happen for a couple different reasons. Some of the most common are stress or anxiety. People who are undergoing a lot of stress might begin to grind their teeth without even noticing it. Another reason is drinking too much caffeine or alcohol. Stimulants can cause you to have an overactive jaw. In other cases, it is simply a bad habit. Not necessarily caused by stress, just a habit.
Lastly, people who have crooked teeth or an overbite might grind their teeth. This is because the jaw does not rest comfortably so the teeth grind back and forth to find a comfortable position.
How Do You Know If You Grind Your Teeth?
Teeth grinding happens a lot at night. Many people do it while they sleep, so they can go for a long period of time without even knowing that they are grinding. This is why it is so important that you know what the effects are of grinding your teeth.
First, you will notice a headache or a sore jaw. This is a sign that in the night you are far too tense. While at the dentist your dentist, like those at Wallington Dental, should be able to tell you if you grind your teeth. They will actually be able to see the teeth broken down because of the constant sawing back and forth. Lastly, if you suspect that you are grinding your teeth ask a loved on to sleep in the same room as you. They should hear grinding or see it in the night.
What Should You Do If You Grind Your Teeth?
There are a couple things that you can do to help with teeth grinding. First, you should start wearing a mouth guard at night. This will be one of the best ways to prevent further damage to your teeth. Avoid chewing a lot of gum during the day. This makes you jaw muscles tense so that you constantly clench. Drink less caffeine and stimulants. Find ways to manage stress better, and lastly make a conscious effort to relax your jaw.
It is important to catch teeth grinding early and correct it so as to protect your teeth.
