Bruxism refers to tooth clenching and grinding that typically takes place at night during sleep. It can become problematic when it damages your teeth, contributes to jaw joint (TMJ) discomfort, or causes gum recession.
It can be tricky to determine when teeth grinding becomes a problem on your own. You may not realize you're clenching or grinding your teeth, since it happens at night while you sleep. This is why it's essential to visit your dentist every six months for preventive exams. Your dentist can spot the signs of bruxism and determine the best treatment to manage it.
The Signs of Serious Bruxism
If bruxism is becoming problematic, these are some of the symptoms you may experience:
- Excessive tooth wear
- Frequent headaches
- Gum recession
- Jaw joint (TMJ) pain
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Tooth fractures or craze lines
Dr. Pagonis will determine the cause of your bruxism to recommend the best treatment for your needs. She may suggest a custom night guard to wear while you sleep to protect your teeth from bruxism-related damage.
If you're wondering when to see a dentist for bruxism, contact our team at (408) 399-3920 and book an evaluation with Dr. Pagonis. She can help to determine your treatment needs.