Bruxism Prevention and Treatment in Riverside, Inland Empire

Posted March 4, 2010 in Home

Bruxism- and its relation to a lagging economy.
The ADA has reported that at least 50% of adults are suffering from a condition called Bruxism.   Bruxism in dental terms is really clenching and grinding.  The condition of clenching and grinding can lead to problems with the TMJ (tempromandibular  joint).  Extra stress on the TMJ joint can lead to chronic migraines, frequent morning tension headaches and joint pain.  Bruxism also causes added stress on the teeth and over time can lead to broken teeth and bone loss.   Symptoms of clenching and grinding are: morning tension headaches, popping of the jaw, migraines, flattening of the teeth.  When the teeth are worn flat from bruxism, the enamel has been worn off and the inside of the tooth begins to be exposed.  As a quick side note; antidepressants can lead to clenching and grinding as a side effect.
At our office we routinely check your chewing system for excessive wear.  Your chewing system is of utmost importance to us.  To treat bruxism, our office will help guide you in determining ways to relax your jaw and teeth on a daily basis.  Often, we recommend an appliance to be worn protect your teeth and chewing system over night.  If you are in Riverside, Inland Empire or greater Southern California area and are experiencing these symptoms, please give our Riverside cosmetic dentistry office a call at (951)686-3666.