Does Orthodontic Treatment Help With Teeth Grinding?

Teeth grinding is an oral health problem that can affect people of all ages. Along with causing jaw pain and being annoying to the people around you, teeth grinding can lead to a number of dental concerns, including damaging your teeth’s enamel. The good news is that managing and preventing teeth grinding is possible. At Senan Orthodontic Studios, our trusted team can help you get your teeth grinding up control and protect your oral health with orthodontic treatment. Here’s what you need to know about how orthodontic treatment could help with your teeth grinding before scheduling your consultation.

Orthodontic Treatment Overview

Orthodontics is a type of dental treatment used to diagnose, prevent, and treat teeth and jaws that aren’t properly positioned. Orthodontic treatment can be administered by a general dentist, or a dentist specializing in orthodontia called an orthodontist. While some people may think that wearing braces or seeking orthodontic care is purely for aesthetic purposes, this isn’t true. Orthodontic treatment can resolve many dental problems in children and adults alike, including teeth grinding.

What Causes People to Grind Their Teeth?

No one knows what exactly causes some people to grind or clench their teeth. While this is true, some factors could make you more likely to experience bruxism or make your teeth grinding worse. These include:

•     Stress
•     Mental disorders, such as anxiety
•     Taking certain medications
•     Having a family history of teeth grinding
•     Smoking
•     Drinking alcohol
•     Crooked teeth
•     Overbite

 What Does Grinding Your Teeth Do to Them Over Time?

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition that affects around ten percent of Americans. While it may not seem like a big deal, teeth grinding should be taken seriously. When left to its own devices, it can cause unpleasant symptoms and lead to other oral health complications, some of which cannot be resolved. For instance, once the enamel from your teeth has worn away from teeth grinding, it cannot be replaced. For this reason, treating your bruxism sooner than later is important.

Some common symptoms and complications of teeth grinding include:

• Jaw, face, or neck pain
• Earaches
• Worn-down enamel on teeth
• Damaged teeth, such as fractures, chips, or cracks
• Waking up during the night
• Tooth sensitivity
• Tight jaw muscles
• Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD)

What Orthodontic Methods Can Help Prevent Teeth Grinding?

If you’ve been living with uncomfortable symptoms caused by teeth grinding or you’re concerned about the long-term effects bruxism can have on your teeth, Dr. Senan Ziadeh may be able to help. Based on your condition, he will create a personalized treatment plan for you that could include:

• Wearing braces to correct the position of your teeth or bite
• Making certain lifestyle changes, such as managing your stress, quitting cigarettes, or consuming less alcohol
• Practicing smart sleeping habits, including going to bed at the same time every night
• Visiting the dentist every six months for routine dental exams and professional cleanings
• Practicing excellent oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day
• Wearing a customized mouth guard at night to protect your enamel from wearing down

Schedule Your Free Teeth Grinding Consultation at Senan Orthodontic Studios

You don’t have to live with the negative effects of teeth grinding forever. If you’re tired of sleeping poorly, experiencing pain, or worrying about your oral health, don’t wait another day to schedule an appointment with the friendly team at Senan Orthodontic Studios. Dr. Senan Ziadeh can diagnose your condition and provide an individualized treatment plan to help manage your teeth-grinding symptoms. We can’t wait to help you live a healthier, happier life with our progressive orthodontic treatments. Contact us today!