Jaw pain can be debilitating and make it harder to eat, talk, and smile. If you have been waking up with a sore jaw, you might have bruxism. This is the technical name for teeth grinding. Some people grind their teeth out of habit or due to stress during the day. However, because most teeth grinding occurs at night, many times people are unaware that it is a problem. Unfortunately, the symptoms associated with bruxism can have a negative effect on the rest of your oral health. The team at Chaney Dental would like our patients to know more about teeth grinding and the available treatment options.
What Are the Symptoms of Bruxism?
Here are some of the signs that indicate you may be grinding your teeth at night.
- Pain in your jaw, face or neck
- Sensitive or worn down teeth
- Headaches & migraines
- Ringing in ears or ear aches
- Disrupted sleep
Treating Bruxism
Oftentimes during a regular dental exam, Dr. Chaney will be able to diagnose bruxism because of excessive wear on a patient’s back molars. Some people grind their teeth because of stress and can find some relief using relaxation techniques. However, generally, in order to protect your teeth from the damage caused by regular grinding, we recommend a custom nightguard. The nightguard not only protects your teeth, but also cushions the grinding and reduces some of the negative symptoms mentioned above. We’re committed to working with you to figure out what works best for you.
Comprehensive dental care in Prairie Village, KS
At Chaney Dental, we use top-notch technology to help our patients reach their smile goals. From general and preventive care to cosmetic and restorative treatments, our mission is to help our patients have healthy and gorgeous smiles without straining your healthcare budget. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!
