Do you wake up with a sore jaw? Have you found yourself grinding your teeth lately? If you find that your jaw has become more sore than usual, you may be developing a deeper issue and should consider taking a trip to the dentist to make sure nothing is wrong. A routine dental check-up may be able to diagnose the issue and recommend proper treatment.
The first question we need to ask is why this is happening. If your teeth do not align properly, clenching and grinding your teeth is a common response, especially while asleep. Over time, your teeth can become seriously worn down, which is its own set of issues. But your teeth may even chip or break because of this unconscious habit, and that’s a different set of remedies.
Many times, stress is a major cause of teeth clenching (bruxism) or grinding. Labeled as one of the most dangerous afflictions, stress is a lifestyle issue that can do more damage than you may think. If your grinding is due to stress, try to identify the reasons you have the stress and try to alleviate those stressors.
Habitual, long-term bruxism can cause a number of problems if left untreated. It can cause your jaw to move out of proper alignment, leading to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Excessive grinding can even cause you to lose your teeth.
Grinding your teeth is a habit that can lead to dental issues, but there are ways to quit the habit and cosmetic dental procedures fix your smile. It’s important to see your dental professional if you feel that you are developing bruxism in order to diagnose the problem and find a solution.
If you have questions or concerns about TMJ issues, make an appointment today with Dr. Philip Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.
Dr. Schnall proudly serves New York and all surrounding areas.