Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Often occurring unconsciously, especially during sleep, bruxism can lead to a variety of dental and health issues if left unchecked. Identifying the signs early can help prevent long-term damage and alleviate associated discomfort. Here are some key indicators that you might be grinding your teeth constantly.
Jaw Pain and Discomfort
One of the most common signs of teeth grinding is persistent jaw pain or discomfort. This pain can be felt in the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) that connect your jaw to your skull. The constant pressure and friction from grinding can cause inflammation and muscle fatigue in these joints, leading to pain that ranges from a dull ache to sharp, intense discomfort. This pain is often most noticeable upon waking, suggesting that grinding is occurring during sleep.
Headaches
Frequent headaches, especially those that start in the temples, can be a sign of bruxism. The excessive clenching and grinding exert pressure on the muscles and tissues around the head, leading to tension headaches. These headaches are usually described as a dull, aching sensation and can occur upon waking or throughout the day
Tooth Damage
Over time, constant grinding can lead to noticeable wear and tear on your teeth. This can manifest as flattened, chipped, or even fractured teeth. In severe cases, the enamel, which is the protective outer layer of the teeth, can become worn down, making the teeth more susceptible to cavities and sensitivity. You might also notice that your teeth appear shorter or more even in length due to the constant grinding.
Increased Tooth Sensitivity
As the enamel wears down, the underlying dentine becomes exposed. This can result in increased sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods and beverages. If you find yourself wincing when eating or drinking something particularly hot or cold, it could be a sign that you’ve been grinding your teeth.
Ear Pain
Although it may seem unrelated, ear pain is another common symptom of bruxism. The proximity of the jaw joint to the ear can cause pain that feels like an earache. This pain is usually not accompanied by other symptoms of an ear infection, such as fever or discharge, which helps differentiate it from other types of ear pain.
Disrupted Sleep
Bruxism can disrupt your sleep as well as the sleep of anyone sharing your bed. The grinding noise can be loud enough to wake you or your partner. Additionally, the physical discomfort caused by grinding can lead to restless sleep or frequent awakenings throughout the night. Poor sleep quality can then exacerbate other symptoms like headaches and jaw pain.
Damage to the Inside of Cheeks
If you find that the inside of your cheeks frequently have indentations or sores, this could be a sign that you are grinding your teeth. The constant motion can cause you to inadvertently bite the insides of your cheeks, leading to tissue damage.
Tight or Tired Jaw Muscles
Waking up with tight or tired jaw muscles is a strong indicator of nocturnal bruxism. You might also notice that your jaw is more difficult to move or that you experience a limited range of motion. This muscle fatigue is due to the continuous clenching and grinding of the teeth.
What you can do about it
Recognising the signs of teeth grinding early is crucial for preventing more severe dental and health issues. If you suspect that you might be grinding your teeth, it is important to consult with a dental professional. They can provide a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatments, such as mouthguards, stress management techniques, or dental corrections, to alleviate the symptoms and protect your teeth from further damage. Understanding and addressing bruxism promptly can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being and quality of life.
Book in an appointment with Auckland Dental care, your family friendly North Shore dentist today.