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Teeth Grinding Fox Lake, IL

Do you catch yourself grinding your teeth at night or when stressed? Have you worn down your teeth due to teeth grinding?

Bruxism, more widely known as teeth grinding, affects millions of people. Because most people grind their teeth at night, many are not aware that they have the condition until it is identified during a dental exam or more serious symptoms begin to develop.

Over time if left untreated, teeth grinding can lead to tooth damage, TMJ-related disorders, and discomfort as a result of muscle tension in the jaw.

One of the quickest and most effective treatments for teeth grinding is a custom night guard. Many people can curb teeth grinding by practicing better dietary habits or relaxation methods, but for those who experience severe teeth grinding, Fox Lake dentist Dr. Thomas Prendergast has the expertise and resources to address your symptoms and help you restore your dental health.

What causes teeth grinding?

Approximately 10–15% of Americans moderately to severely grind their teeth. Some cases are severe and require oral surgery. Sometimes patients do not even know that they grind their teeth, but come into our office with significant signs. There are several different reasons people grind their teeth:

  • Stress or anxiety
  • Malocclusion (improper alignment of the teeth)
  • Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD)
  • Parkinson’s or Huntington’s Disease

How do I know if I am grinding my teeth?

  • Worn, flattened, fractured, or chipped teeth
  • Worn tooth enamel
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Jaw pain or tightness in the jaw muscles
  • Headache or Earache
  • Facial pain
  • Damaged tissue on the inside of your cheek

If you notice any of the above symptoms come in for a visit and dental exam. Dr. Prendergast can identify the signs of teeth grinding and work with you to develop a treatment plan. Our treatment plans are tailored to the individual and designed to address all underlying causes and concerns. We can repair worn and broken teeth with cosmetic and restorative dental services.

Teeth Grinding Treatment in Fox Lake

Some people find relief from teeth grinding through a few at-home remedies:

  • Cut back on foods with caffeine
  • Avoid alcohol
  • Do not chew on anything that is not food, such as pens, pencils, etc.
  • Relax your jaw muscles at night by holding a warm compress to the area

One of the treatments offered at Infinity Dental Fox Lake is custom mouthguards. If you are still experiencing teeth grinding, Dr. Prendergast can custom fit a mouthguard for you. This mouthguard is worn at night and is custom made to fit over your teeth. The oral appliance will prevent teeth from coming into contact with each other.

A mouthguard will also help reposition the jaw and allow the muscles to relax in a natural position while you sleep. Another recommended treatment is orthodontics. This is dependent on the severity of your teeth grinding issue.

Teeth Grinding FAQs

Should I go to the dentist for teeth grinding?

If you are struggling with grinding your teeth, your dentist may be able to help you address the cause of the issue is and provide options to help you stop and protect your teeth from future damage.

After visiting the dentist for teeth grinding many patients end up getting a night guard to protect their teeth. They also may be able to address why they are grinding their teeth and fix that so that the issue of teeth grinding goes away.

What vitamin deficiency causes teeth grinding?

Patients who are deficient in calcium and magnesium are prone to grind their teeth. Many patients are able to stop grinding their teeth by changing their diet and being sure to consume higher levels of calcium and magnesium.

Can you hear teeth grinding?

The individual grinding their teeth may be completely oblivious to the fact that they are grinding. Many patients who grind their teeth discover it first from their partner hearing them. The sounds sound like two hard items grinding and clenching together repeatedly.

Can teeth heal from grinding?

Teeth will not heal from the damage caused by grinding, but future damage can be prevented. Many people grind and clench their teeth unknowingly. Wearing a mouthguard is a common way to protect against further damage. Tooth enamel does not regrow.

Can dietary changes help reduce teeth grinding?

Yes, dietary changes can help reduce teeth grinding. Eating softer foods and avoiding hard or chewy items can give your jaw muscles a break. Staying hydrated and reducing caffeine and alcohol intake may also help relax your jaw and reduce the urge to grind your teeth.

Can teeth grinding cause headaches or facial pain?

Teeth grinding can cause headaches and facial pain. The constant clenching and grinding put strain on the jaw muscles and joints, leading to tension headaches and soreness in the face and neck. Managing teeth grinding can provide relief from these symptoms.

How effective are mouthguards for treating bruxism?

We offer mouthguards that are very effective in treating teeth grinding. A nightguard offers a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. This type of mouthguard will prevent your teeth from grinding together and your jaw from clenching. When you get a custom nightguard, it will help reduce your jaw pain, headaches, and tooth damage, providing a simple yet effective solution for managing bruxism.

Schedule a Dental Exam & Consultation

Never assume your treatment before consulting with a dental professional. If you suffer from teeth grinding, request an appointment with a dentist at Infinity Dental of Fox Lake and get the relief you need. Dr. Thomas Prendergast and his team are experienced in addressing many teeth grinding issues with restorative dentistry.