By info
August 18, 2010
Category: Uncategorized
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Do you ever wake up with a headache? Sore teeth? Sore jaw? Are your teeth sensitive (especially after dental work)? Do you feel your teeth are getting shorter? Do you have "TMJ"? (This last one is actually a trick question. Everyone has two TMJs, temporomandibular joints, that assist us in jaw movements) If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be what is known as a bruxer. Bruxism is the habit of either clenching your upper and lower teeth together or grinding them by sliding your upper and lower teeth back and forth over each other.
Bruxism can not only be detrimental to your teeth, it can have adverse effects on one's overall well-being (PAIN!). Unfortunately, like most habits, it is not very easy to control. The main reason for this is that a majority of clenching/grinding occurs while one is asleep. There are many spouses and partners out there that can literally hear the teeth wearing away (grinding). The best way to help manage the symptoms of nighttime bruxism is to get custom-fitted for an occlusal splint, or nightguard. This is an appliance (which I wear) designed to reduce the stress on your TMJs, chewing muscles and teeth.
If you are a victim of bruxism during the day, you are likely clenching your teeth at work, school, home, or just about any activity. Stress is by far the greatest inducer of bruxism. It's also found that activities involving high levels of concentration can increase the occurrence. Furthermore, recent dental work can trigger the habit of bruxism. Fortunately it is a bit easier to control daytime bruxism simply due to the fact that we have the ability to be conscious of the habit. Placing your tongue between your teeth or placing the tip of the tongue on the roof of your mouth can be nice tricks to help manage the habit if you catch yourself in the act (I frequently do the latter).
Bruxism is a habit that is best not to be ignored. Simple interventions can help manage and prevent problems from worsening. Always feel free to contact your local dentist (GHD!) with any concerns.

-RTF DDS

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Dentist Maple Grove, MN
Grove Health Dental

9907 Maple Grove Parkway
Maple Grove, MN 55369

Phone: (763) 416-0011

After Hours Line: 763-482-1405

 

Monday: 1:30PM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Thursday: 1:30PM - 8:00 PM
*Friday: by appointment only

*Though we are only available
periodically on Fridays, we will answer
any questions you have during the time
we are in the office that day.