Did you know that persistent teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can lead to serious problems for your smile? But why do we grind our teeth? What causes the disorder and what steps can our Woodland Hills, CA, patients do to protect their smiles?
The Causes of Bruxism
Several factors may lead to the onset of teeth grinding. For example, tooth loss, misalignment, malocclusion, and even injury to the jaw or face could lead to a patient grinding his or her teeth. A high level of stress in your daily life will also lead to bruxism. Understanding the cause of your disorder is key to recommending the best treatment option, which is why we will examine the wear and friction on your teeth to identify the cause and severity of your grinding and/or clenching.
Dangers to Your Smile
Over time, bruxism will place serious pressure on your teeth. They become worn down and may even chip or fracture. The damage and worn-down tooth enamel mean the sensitive inner structure will be exposed to bacteria, leading to a greater risk of tooth decay and even dental infection. In order to preserve the health and appearance of your smile, you should seek treatment for your teeth grinding.
Treating Teeth Grinding
In many cases, we prescribe an oral appliance. A custom-made device that resembles a nightguard, the appliance will prevent further damage to the teeth by placing a barrier between the upper and lower sets of teeth, while also repositioning the jaw. We also address the problem with a custom-made dental restoration, such as a crown, or possibly orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions about bruxism, or if you recognize any of the symptoms we’ve discussed above, then contact our team today. Don’t let bruxism damage your smile!
Talk To Woodland Hills Dental Arts About Teeth Grinding
Our team offers comfortable and minimally invasive solutions to teeth grinding and jaw clenching. Schedule a consultation by calling Woodland Hills Dental Arts in Woodland Hills, CA, today at (818) 347-5124. We also proudly work with patients from Thousand Oaks, Westlake, Encino, Sherman Oaks, and all other surrounding areas.