How to Fix Ground Teeth: Treatments to Stop Tooth Grinding and Restore Damaged Smiles

Identifying and Treating Ground Teeth

Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is a common condition that can cause serious dental problems over time. In this article, well explore the signs you may be grinding your teeth, why it happens, potential complications, and most importantly - how to stop grinding for good.

Symptoms that Indicate Teeth Grinding

Here are some of the most common symptoms that you may be grinding or clenching your teeth:

• Worn down teeth
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Sore or tired jaw muscles
• Headaches upon waking
• Disturbed sleep for you or partner
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Loose teeth

Take note if you experience any of these issues. Even subtle tooth wear can worsen over time. The sooner grinding is addressed, the better.

What Causes Involuntary Teeth Grinding?

There are a few potential causes of involuntary, subconscious teeth grinding:

• Stress - Jaw clenching can be a physical manifestation of mental stress and anxiety.
• Sleep disorders - Conditions like sleep apnea may trigger grinding.
• Medications - Some drugs like antidepressants are linked to bruxism.
• Teeth misalignment - Crooked teeth put extra pressure on the jaw.
• Aggressive personality - Competitive and driven people may clench their teeth.

Identifying any underlying causes of grinding with your dentist can help guide treatment approaches.

Consequences of Long-Term Teeth Grinding

Bruxism may seem harmless at first, but over many years it can lead to significant oral health issues including:

Tooth Damage

Constant grinding wears down tooth enamel allowing decay to set in more quickly. It can also chip or even fracture teeth.

Bone Loss

Severe grinding alters forces on the jawbone leading to bone density loss and receding gums.

Headaches

Overworked jaw muscles can refer pain to the head causing chronic headaches.

TMJ Problems

Wear and tear on the temporomandibular joint between skull and jaw may lead to TMJ disorders.

Sleep Disruption

Grinding noises and jaw discomfort awake both you and your partner throughout the night.

Stress and Anxiety

Bruxism causes a self-perpetuating cycle where physical symptoms increase mental stress.

Nipping grinding in the bud early on prevents progressed dental complications down the road.

Treatments to Stop Teeth Grinding

Depending on severity, both professional and at-home treatments can help curb damaging teeth grinding:

Occlusal Night Guard

Wearing a custom night guard while sleeping cushions the teeth from forceful grinding and prevents wear. This is often the first line of treatment.

Stress Reduction

Relaxation techniques, therapy, and addressing sources of anxiety may help reduce grinding from stress.

Medication Adjustments

Changing medications linked to bruxism under a doctors supervision may alleviate grinding.

Botox Injections

Paralyzing jaw muscles with Botox reduces forceful grinding and clenching.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback devices help make patients aware of grinding so they can consciously reduce it.

Dental Work

Restorations like crowns repair damage while orthodontics correct bite issues contributing to grinding.

An individualized treatment plan tailored to you developed with your dentist offers the best chance of permanently resolving grinding issues.

Coping with Bruxism Damage

For those with severe long term tooth damage from years of unchecked grinding, full mouth reconstruction may be necessary. This can involve extensive procedures like:

Dental Implants

Implants anchored in the jawbone replace teeth lost due to decay from grinding.

Dental Crowns

Crowns reinforced with durable materials encase damaged teeth to restore form and function.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers mask external tooth damage through a thin shell bonded over the existing enamel.

Full Mouth Rehabilitation

A combination of treatments may be required to completely overhaul the mouths framework.

Though extensive, full mouth restorations can help patients regain confidence in their smile. Ongoing grinding control remains critical for long-term success.

Preventing Teeth Grinding in Children

While often thought of as an adult condition, teeth grinding also frequently affects young kids. Catching bruxism early in childhood helps prevent progression.

Monitor Warning Signs

Watch for dental wear, headaches, jaw complaints or ear pain that could signal nighttime grinding.

Address Emotional Issues

Counseling to manage childhood stress, anxiety or ADHD may diminish grinding.

Custom Mouth Guards

Cushioning guards worn at night protect baby teeth from damage.

Massage and Exercise

Gentle jaw massage and activity to release tension may curb grinding.

Though temporary, childhood bruxism often resolves on its own by adulthood. But management helps avoid extensive dental work down the road.

When to Seek Professional Help

Look for a dentists assistance if you experience:

• Tooth pain or sensitivity
• Chipped or damaged teeth
• Persistent jaw pain or soreness
• Headaches or ear pain
• Sleep disruption from grinding

A dental exam can identify bruxism early and begin tailored therapies to protect your teeth.

Restore Your Smile

Severe teeth grinding can take a toll on your oral health over time. But todays advanced treatments make it possible to restore damaged smiles.

Getting evaluated quickly mends issues before they worsen. With prompt attention and ongoing management, you can keep your teeth intact for the long run.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.