3 Signs You Are Grinding Your Teeth
January 4, 2019
The habitual grinding of your teeth (also referred to as bruxism) often happens while you are sleeping. If something occurs while you are asleep, how do you know that it is happening? When it comes to bruxism, your dentist will likely see signs of it during your routine exams. However, we are outlining three signs that you may notice to tip you off to a teeth-grinding habit. If you are grinding your teeth, it is important to try to manage it for the health of your smile. The team at Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO can help you determine if you are grinding your teeth and help you find a solution for the problem.
#1: You Notice Clenching During the Day
If during your waking hours you notice that your jaw is clenched up, it may be a sign that you are doing this while you are sleeping. A clenched jaw and that tension can be a sign that you are clenching so tightly your teeth are grinding.
#2: Your Teeth Feel Sensitive
Your teeth are strong. They are each covered with a very durable, hard, and resilient substance known as enamel. When your teeth grind together, it is like rubbing together two bumpy rocks. Over time with the constant nightly friction, the hard substances can begin to damage each other. Your teeth can sustain tiny minuscule cracks in the surfaces. These tiny cracks can be so small that you cannot see them, but large enough that you feel them in the form of tooth sensitivity. These cracks can also cause your teeth to be more vulnerable to tooth decay and tooth damage.
#3: You Feel Pain
Do you often wake up in the morning with a headache, sore cheeks, or a sore jaw? This could be because you spent the night clenching your jaw and grinding your teeth. If most mornings you wake up with pain, it is time for you to talk to your dentist about the possibility of bruxism affecting your smile.
Do You Notice Signs of Teeth-Grinding?
Grinding your teeth can cause problems for your smile. To schedule a consultation, call Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.