Grinding & Clenching Teeth

Are You Grinding Your Teeth?

Tooth grinding (AKA bruxism) can be a big problem

Grinding or clenching your teeth is a common stress reaction, and most don’t even realize they are doing it. However, it can have a devastating impact on your teeth, especially when it becomes a habit and a go-to response. If you know you have a grinding problem or have other unexplained jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, or soreness, please contact us for an appointment by calling (555) 555-5555.

Compared to other animals like crocodiles, shark, etc., it may seem like humans have a relatively weak bite. However, the jaw muscles are the strongest in the human body and are more than capable of producing great force. (On average, around 160 pounds per square inch.) This pressure can crack or damage teeth enamel, especially over time and with repetitive behavior.

Even more devastating is when the tooth grinding occurs at night when the patient is unaware. In extreme cases, they may wake up with a sore jaw or teeth, but there may be no initial symptoms at all. Over time, however, tooth enamel is worn down (sometimes entirely), and teeth become more sensitive to temperature and pressure. Teeth can also be more prone to developing cavities or cracking.

Treatment & Prevention

We can treat the effects of tooth grinding by repairing any damage that has occurred. However, it is just as important to treat the condition itself. We can create a plastic acrylic night guard to be worn by the patient, which will stop any further damage. Additionally, ensuring that you get enough sleep, regular exercise, and reducing stress are effective ways to minimize bruxism.

By Westlake Family Dental|2023-06-04T11:34:01-05:00December 19th, 2023|Restorative Dentistry|Comments Off

About the Author: Westlake Family Dental

Dr. Angela Burns moved to Austin 10 years ago and instantly fell in love with our beautiful city. Dr. Burns is originally from the Texarkana area. She attended Texas A&M for her undergraduate degree and The University of Tennessee Health Science Center for her degree in dental surgery (DDS). Dr. Burns is committed to providing her patients with gentle, technologically advanced dental treatment. She attends an average of 60 hours of continuing education every year. She is a member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Texas Dental Association, and the Capital Area Dental Society. Dr. Burns and her husband, Gary, have an 11-year-old daughter, Sydney, who is a proud 6th grader at Hill Country Middle School. She is also very involved in the Eanes PTO, her church, and loves raising her family in the Westlake community. “Growing up, I was drawn to mediating and helping others feel more included and less anxious. I was a camp counselor, student government officer and being the oldest of five, I was the family mediator. I found that I had a calling to help alleviate stressful situations for others and realized that being a good listener was something that was key to this. These skills really helped guide me into becoming a dentist that has based my practice on relationships, empathy and a sense of comfort. I knew that I wanted to provide an atmosphere that felt like home when others walked in. Our practice is small, personal and state of the art and we hope you feel like you’re hanging out with friends when you are here!” When she is not practicing dentistry, Dr. Burns enjoys traveling, hiking the greenbelt, enjoying Austin’s music scene, and eating Amy’s Ice Cream.

Grinding & Clenching Teeth