Do you grind your teeth while you sleep? If so, you may be suffering from a common yet serious condition known as bruxism. Bruxism occurs when you unknowingly grind and gnash your teeth together. The constant wear and tear of doing so can weaken, crack, chip, and otherwise damage your precious pearly white teeth. Always check for warning signs to determine if you are suffering from bruxism.
Bruxism is most easily found or noticed by others, including sleep partners or roommates, who can easily notice and detect any loud teeth grinding noises that you may be producing as you sleep. Another common symptom of bruxism is with the teeth themselves, as they look flat or worn, or even show signs of chipping and cracking that may be otherwise unexplainable.
Another common warning sign of bruxism is an upgraded sensitivity with your teeth, which is often strongest after you wake up. You may also feel an increase in jaw pain or soreness. Injured cheek tissue, a locked jaw, and pain much like earaches are also common signs. Bruxism is commonly linked to TMJ disorders and sleep apnea.
If you would like to get a thorough exam for bruxism, please book an appointment with Dr. Leila Ebrahimpoor at our dentist office in Ottawa, Ontario, by calling us at (613) 226-4562 . Our team at Skyline Dental Associates looks forward to bringing your smile back to its fullest.