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Bruxism/Tooth Grinding

Bruxism is the dental term for teeth grinding. Most people grind their teeth from time to time with little to no damage to the teeth or jaw. However, those who continually grind their teeth can cause serious damage to their teeth and other oral health complications can arise.

Bruxism refers to any type of forceful contact between the teeth. This can be a loud and grating contact or a silent and clenching contact. Either form can cause serious damage to the teeth. Many aren’t aware that they have the condition because they grind their teeth only in their sleep when they are not conscious about this action. However, bruxism can occur during waking hours as well.

Adults and children both can suffer from the condition. Alcohol, drugs, and certain sleep disorders can exacerbate the condition, making it worse. Children usually develop bruxism as a result of a cold or infection. Often pain from teething or earaches will induce bruxism in toddlers and children.

Why do I grind my teeth?

The cause of bruxism is still unknown.  However, it is believed that increased stress and anxiety can greatly increase how often and how severely you grind your teeth.  Having an abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth are also thought to contribute to teeth grinding.

Why is bruxism bad?

Occasional bruxism usually does not result in damage to the teeth or jaw. However, chronic teeth grinding can cause serious dental issues.  In some cases, grinding can result in tooth fracture, loosening of teeth, or the loss of a tooth or teeth. Grinding and clenching can contribute to gum recession. Grinding over years without treatment can wear the teeth down to stumps, which will require bridges, crowns, root canals, implants, or possibly even dentures to repair.

Not only is bruxism bad for your teeth, it is also damaging to the jaw. Grinding can result in hearing loss, change the appearance of your face, and TMJ.

Other tips to help reduce bruxism include:

  • Cut back or eliminate foods that contain caffeine from your diet.  This includes coffee, soda, tea, and chocolate.
  • Avoid alcohol.  Alcohol tends to increase the severity and frequency of bruxism.
  • Don’t chew on anything that is not food.  This includes gum, pencils, or pens.  Constantly chewing conditions your jaw muscles to stay clenched and makes you more likely to grind your teeth.
  • Pay attention to your mouth.  If you notice that you grind or clench your teeth during the day, train yourself to relax. Position the tip of your tongue between your front teeth to make it harder to clench or grind your teeth.
  • Relax your jaw before bed.  Using a warm washcloth on the face at night will help relax the jaw prior to sleep. Position it on your cheek in front of your earlobe to get maximum results.

Our patients opinions

It’s always the word of mouth that’s the best advice.

Here are some of our…

” I have been a patient of Dr. Gutt and his outstanding team for more than 15 years. I had some issues at the time of my initial visit and between the exam, cleaning, and treatment I received, I knew I chose wisely when selecting South Florida Periodontal. Dr. Gutt is extremely competent and always provides completely detailed explanations on treatment, follow-up care, and patient self-care. His entire staff has remained intact the entire time, and they are a model of consistency, dependability, and integrity, with a genuine personal touch. This was reaffirmed after a dental procedure I needed while on an extended trip out of state. With little time to search, I ended up at one of those “factory” dental offices in that city. There was simply no comparison. “

Dennis Cassa

” Thorough and clearly explained observations and report, to be forwarded to Dr. Tycoliz – Summerland Dental “

Larry Ledford

” Dr. Gutt is a very friendly and gentle doctor. He listens intently, is thorough and has amazing doctor/patient rapport. His staff is warm and friendly. From the moment i walked into the office, i felt taken care of. “

Iris Seltzer

” Dr. Gutt and his team are THE best, whether you need very sophisticated dental procedures or just a great cleaning. Our family has relied on them for many years, consistently awesome pros! “

Jose Latour

“ Very professional staff. I am very pleased with the care I received. Highly recommended. ”

Drew Werner

” Not only Dr Gutt but also the his entire team are very caring and show professionalism. He has been taking care of my husband and I, always with the beat practices and the best technology, I can’t recommend him enough! “

Nancy Ogassawala

“ Doctor who explains thoroughly goes through everything and builds an orderly plan ”

Simona

” I’ve been seeing Dr. Gutt for many years and have always had a positive experience. He and his staff are always very pleasant and take the necessary time to explain all procedures, regardless of the complexity. His work is flawless. I’ve never had any complications from his procedures and most importantly have a healthy set of teeth. “

Dick Shon

” Absolutely the best team in town. Genuinely cares about patients and giving the best corrective dental care. I had continuous dental problems for 20 years until Dr. Gutt took charge of my perio care. Yadira has been the best dental tech I’ve ever had a cleaning with. Highly recommended. Thank you for putting an end to years of struggle. “

Mark Edwards

” Dr. Gutt is excellent. Thorough and extremely capable. We are lucky to have him here in Key West “

William Levinson
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