How Grinding Your Teeth Impacts Your Health

It goes without saying that as one of the most common dental concerns there are, tooth decay is often the biggest threat to your grin. It can develop and spread throughout the mouth, affecting all teeth if given the opportunity, and will ultimately result in a total loss. For some people, however, the biggest concern may actually involve consistent and chronic teeth grinding. In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX dentist will look at a phenomenon known as bruxism and just how much it impacts your oral health.

Increased Chances for Infection

When one endures consistent grinding, what is happening is that you are clenching and rubbing your teeth together from side-to-side. This occurrence can happen at any time, but most often is an unconscious occurrence happening while one sleeps. During this process, friction is created as structures clench and slide, ultimately wearing down the surfaces of your teeth. What’s more, the subsequent weakening of structures actually increases your chances of developing chips or cracks as well as inviting bacteria to wreak havoc. In other words, you are now at a higher risk of developing infection or decay. For more information about this process or to speak to our team, reach out to our office today.

Functional Complications

In addition to the increased chances of developing an infection, your smile will begin to suffer function complications as well. For instance, the incessant clenching can generate strain, causing the opening and closing of your mouth to become difficult. What’s more, you could develop a jaw dysfunction known as TMJ disorder. This occurs when your lower mandible becomes misaligned with your temporomandibular (TMJ) joints, the area at which your lower jaw hinges. With TMJ disorder, you can experience painful popping or clicking, strain, and serious damage. If you suspect you may be enduring TMJ disorder or have been grinding your teeth, reach out to our team today.

When to Seek Help

Chronic bruxism can be a bigger concern than you might expect, which is why it is always better to seek assistance sooner rather than later. Our team can take the strides to help you acquire treatment, such as looking into oral appliances to prevent your teeth from incurring any more damage. Mouthguards protect your grin while you sleep so that if you grind, they will not take on damage. Make sure to seek assistance from your trusted tea today to ensure a healthy smile for life.

Learn More Today

There are a number of actors that impact your smile’s health, and we want to help you stay on top of your options. Contact Gentle Smiles Family Dentistry in Dallas, TX by calling 972-329-7645 today to learn your options or to schedule your next appointment with our team.