What Grinding Your Teeth Can Do to Your Oral Health
Posted on 11/8/2021 by SRD Muscle Shoals
Also known as bruxism, tooth grinding can damage your teeth significantly. Bruxism can occur when sleeping (sleep bruxism) or during the day (awake bruxism). While it is hard to control bruxism, you can control its effects on your oral health. It is important to know the effects of grinding your teeth so that you take the necessary precautions. Some of the effects of grinding your teeth include loose teeth, tooth decay, and tooth sensitivity.
Loose Teeth
You are likely to have loose teeth after grinding them for a long time. Grinding exerts excessive pressure on your teeth and weakens their structure. As a result, they become loose and could easily fall out even with the slightest interruption. This is a risky situation that needs urgent care. If you notice loose teeth in your mouth, you should come in for treatment immediately. This will prevent tooth loss and possible oral infections.
Tooth Decay
You could also develop tooth decay due to grinding. While grinding doesn't directly cause tooth decay, it contributes to it. When you are grinding your teeth, you damage the enamel. The enamel is the tough outer layer of your tooth that protects it from bacteria. When this layer is damaged, it makes it easy for bacteria to attack your tooth. As a result, you will develop tooth decay. If this condition is not treated on time, it can advance and cause tooth loss.
Tooth Sensitivity
Grinding can also lead to tooth sensitivity. This happens when the underlying dentin and nerves are exposed. The enamel is damaged by grinding and exposes the nerves and dentin. As a result, you will experience sensitivity when drinking hot or cold beverages. This condition is very uncomfortable and can make it difficult for you to enjoy food. You could also develop an oral abscess. Schedule a consultative appointment with us for more information on the effects of tooth grinding.
About Us - Muscle Shoals, AL • Singing River Dentistry At Singing River Dentistry, our goal is to help our patients achieve beautiful smiles. Schedule your appointment today! Singing River Dentistry, 2402 Avalon Ave, Suite A, Muscle Shoals, AL 35661 | 256-712-3186 | muscleshoals.singingriverdentistry.com | 11/14/2024 | Tags: dentist Muscle Shoals AL |
Also known as bruxism, tooth grinding can damage your teeth significantly. Bruxism can occur when sleeping (sleep bruxism) or during the day (awake bruxism). While it is hard to control bruxism, you can control its effects on your oral health. It is important to know the effects of grinding your teeth so that you take the necessary precautions. Some of the effects of grinding your teeth include loose teeth, tooth decay, and tooth sensitivity.