Why Ignoring Bruxism Can Harm Your Smile
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, might seem harmless at first, but when left untreated, it can lead to serious dental problems. At Katy Smile Design, our dentists in Katy, TX, Dr. Lauren Shepard and Dr. Catherine Wilder are here to help you understand the risks so you can protect your smile!
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding or clenching. It can happen during the day or night, often without you realizing it. Many people don’t even know they grind their teeth until they start noticing symptoms. Whether due to stress, misaligned teeth, or sleep disorders, bruxism shouldn’t be ignored.
How Untreated Bruxism Affects Your Teeth
Over time, the constant grinding can wear down the enamel—the protective layer of your teeth. As this enamel erodes, teeth become more sensitive, making everyday activities like eating or drinking uncomfortable. You may also notice small cracks or chips in your teeth. Without intervention, these minor issues can lead to more serious damage, requiring crowns or even root canals.
Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorder
One of the most common symptoms of bruxism is jaw pain. Continuous grinding puts strain on the muscles in your face and jaw. This can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), which causes chronic pain, difficulty chewing, and even headaches. TMJ disorders are often difficult to treat and can lead to long-term discomfort if bruxism is not managed.
Sleep Disturbances
For those who grind their teeth at night, sleep quality can suffer. Bruxism can lead to restless nights, not only for you but for your partner if the grinding is loud. Poor sleep affects your overall well-being and can leave you feeling tired, stressed, and more prone to health issues like high blood pressure.
Gum Recession
In some cases, bruxism can contribute to gum recession. The excessive pressure caused by grinding can weaken the gums, leading to gum recession and exposing more of the tooth’s root. This can increase the risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
Don’t Let Bruxism Wear You Down
Ignoring bruxism is risky. At Katy Smile Design, we offer custom-made night guards to protect your teeth while you sleep. In addition, stress management techniques and dental adjustments can help reduce the severity of bruxism.The sooner you address it, the better. Contact Katy Smile Design today by calling (281) 396-4366 to learn how we can help protect your smile from the risks of untreated bruxism.