Can bruxism be caused by stress? In short, yes it can. Dr. Cohan in Summerlin, Nevada goes over how stress affects your smile.
Everybody has more "work" than is customary for them these days. Even those of us who consider ourselves to have relatively low-stress lives may go through periods of anxiety or melancholy due to our job surroundings, the schools our children attend, or other social effects of COVID-19. Even though we may believe that our relatively low-stress lifestyles have been a blessing, this may not always be the case.
It's likely that your body is trying to adapt to the changes that are occurring even though you don't "feel" anxious. Additionally, one of the most common unfavorable side effects of your body "feeling" anxious is clenching and grinding your teeth together. The tendency of grinding one's teeth, which can happen consciously or unintentionally, is known as "bruxism," a condition. Your body is merely reacting to the stress in the environment around you whether your TMJ tightens up when you are trying to concentrate, while you are driving in traffic, or when you are dealing with a tough customer.
I do have some terrible news for you, though. Grinding your teeth, which may also be a sign of a sleeping disorder, can have a bad impact on your smile, your TMJ, and possibly your health.
You can still be feeling additional effects in your daily life even if you aren't aware that stress is making you grind your teeth (bruxism).
TMD and teeth grinding have been connected to one another (TMJ).
Your TMJ may experience chronic strain if you grind your teeth, particularly if the problem goes untreated. The joints on either side of your mandible allow it to move up and down as well as to the side and in other directions. A full-blown case of TMJ dysfunction or other negative effects may arise if the cartilage in your TMJ or the muscles in and around it become strained or irritated.
When individuals experience a flare-up, it's not unusual for patients to experience joint pain, headaches, stiffness, and a decreased range of motion. It's probable that you'll notice it when it's least convenient for you, such right after you get up in the morning or right after you arrive home from work. Keep an eye on your body to see if you have any further TMJ symptoms, such as popping or clicking. If so, you might need to wear a bite guard or a splint that covers your teeth to "train" your TMJ to relax when your body is under stress.
The Impact of Bruxism on Dental Work and Enamel
One of the most significant effects of teeth grinding on your smile is the harm it causes to your enamel and dental work. Grinding your teeth can have a lot of adverse effects on your appearance. Even though enamel is tough and resilient—indeed, it's the material in your body that is most resilient—it is not unbreakable. Because of the pressure put on your teeth when you clench and grind them, your tooth enamel will begin to progressively chip away or wear off, leaving behind flat, pointed, or jagged surfaces. The teeth of people who grind their teeth frequently tend to look shorter and flatter throughout the width of their mouths.
But this is only one of the several affects that bruxism has on the way your smile looks. Regularly grinding your teeth could reduce the durability of your current restorations (such as dental fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, etc.) Although these restorations are very sturdy, the patient's natural tooth structure is still stronger than them. Therefore, if you continue to put extra strain on them day after day while you are under a lot of stress, there is a greater likelihood that something will break.
It's possible that the filling in your tooth breaks in half, that a piece of the tooth around the filling breaks off, or that a layer of porcelain chips off the crown. When anything like that happens, the complete repair must be performed because a patch cannot conceal the damage. The restoration usually becomes more invasive to the tooth because it's possible that some of the tooth's structure was also removed. This worsens a situation that is already difficult.
There is a link between teeth grinding and sleep apnea
Maybe you've been doing it for so long under the impression that the constant stress in your life is to blame. Bruxism, or nighttime teeth grinding, is closely linked to sleep problems such obstructive sleep apnea. Even if your life is very stressful, this is still true (OSA). People who have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may wake up feeling exhausted, with a sore jaw, or with headaches because of the ongoing stress on their muscles.
Squeezing your jaws and teeth as tightly as you can is your body's natural response to not obtaining enough oxygen, which may seem paradoxical but is what actually occurs. Because OSA prevents you from actually waking up, it's likely that this cycle of airway obstruction and teeth grinding will go on all night if you have it.
In addition to these symptoms, sleep apnea is linked to depression, tiredness, weight gain, high blood pressure, and a wide range of other symptoms. If you snore or feel tired all the time, it is in your best interest to speak with a sleep physician about getting tested for obstructive sleep apnea or any other sleeping disorder. These days, you can "take home" sleep tests to complete in the comfort of your own bedroom. These studies are appearing more frequently.
Summerlin Dental Solutions will assess you for teeth clenching and grinding, sleep apnea, and TMJ issues as part of the comprehensive exams we provide. To lessen the chance of tooth wear, snoring, or any other detrimental effects linked to your bruxism habit, Dr. Marianne Cohan may advise you to use an oral device or a biting splint.
If you discover that your teeth are becoming increasingly worn down or if your jaw hurts when you wake up, call our Summerlin dentist right away.
CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT!
GET TO KNOW YOUR BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN
Dr. Marianne Cohan was voted 15 - time Best of Las Vegas from The Las Vegas Review-Journal. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992.
With an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry, complete makeovers, and implant dentistry, Dr. Cohan is committed to continuing education and feels that we never stop learning. Dr. Cohan takes pride in using high-powered magnification to perform minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She uses all the latest technological advances including digital radiography, digital photography, computer simulations, and high-resolution pictures of your proposed treatment on 55-inch screens. She also utilizes CBCT (cone beam) and laser technology.
Dr. Cohan is always available to her patients and is available for any dental emergency.
Have you ever questioned whether or not you really require a mouthguard to protect your teeth? If that's the case, then you should definitely read this article before making your next appointment with the dentist.
Do not be concerned in the least if you do not know what questions to ask. You are by no means the only one dealing with this issue, particularly if you are not familiar with mouthguards or night-guards.
Mouthguards are designed to protect your teeth and gums from injury, and contrary to popular belief, they are more effective in doing so than you might initially believe. While you are using the device, you can experience some initial and transient discomfort; nevertheless, the benefits to your oral health make the slight inconvenience more than worthwhile.
It's possible that you're confused about the function of a mouthguard and why certain individuals need to wear them. The following is a rundown of the fundamental information you need to have before selecting the mouthguard that will serve you best.
Your grin will end up being preserved in all of its glory along with its health and protection.
When you play sports, it is important to protect your teeth with a dental appliance called a mouthguard. If you clench and grind your teeth as you sleep, you could benefit from wearing one of these.
In either case, mouthguards perform admirably when they are customized to fit the unique contours of a person's teeth and mouth. There are some that come in regular sizes, while others offer personalized fits; in addition, they can be constructed from a variety of materials.
The distinction between dentures and mouthguards is one that is frequently confused by people. Although they share a similar appearance, their functions couldn't be more different.
Dentures are artificial teeth that can be worn in place of missing teeth, and mouthguards are designed to prevent tooth loss in those who wear them.
Mouthguards are normally made of a formable plastic that can be molded to fit the mouth of any individual, and they are also compact enough to be carried around and used as necessary. As a result, it is imperative that you do not misplace your mouthguard.
Who should consider wearing a mouthguard?
It is highly suggested that anybody who participates in a sport that involves physical contact use a mouthguard. In point of fact, you might not have a choice but to put one on.
No matter what kind of activity you participate in, your health and safety should always come first. This pertains to both the physical and dental health of the individual. An injury to the mouth or gum line can result in the loss of teeth and/or heavy bleeding, and if the damage is serious, oral surgery may be required as an emergency procedure.
In addition to protecting your teeth during contact sports, mouthguards can also be worn during activities such as riding a bike, skating, or other recreational activities that have the potential to cause an injury to the mouth.
Mouthguards, also known as nightguards, are an excellent solution for people who suffer from sleep apnea or grind their teeth while sleeping.
What are the many kinds of mouthguards available?
There are three primary categories of mouthguards, which are as follows:
Here is some information to help you better understand each type and determine which one could be the most suitable for you.
Stock Mouth Protectors.
These mouthguards are the least priced choice and may be found in a wide variety of sporting goods retailers. They are also easily accessible.
They are available in a variety of sizes, but the catch is that they cannot be customized in any way and only provide the most fundamental level of protection. They may be available in a variety of colors, but the fit is predetermined and cannot be altered in any way.
Boil-and-bite Guards
This particular kind of mouthguard may be adjusted to fit the contours of your mouth in a matter of minutes. It also comes in a variety of sizes that are determined by the state of your mouth and teeth, but this type may be modified to fit your specific needs.
The procedure for fitting is rather uncomplicated. To break in the new mouthguard, you submerge it in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes. The next step is to put the material in your mouth while it is still hot, and to press the plastic against your teeth while doing so.
As soon as the protector has returned to its normal temperature, it will keep its form, and you will then be able to begin practicing on the field.
Custom Fitted Mouthguard
It's possible that you've observed that the mouthguards that some elite sportsmen use have interesting shapes. These are made to order in order to provide the highest level of mouth protection possible.
However, the use of this kind of protection is not necessary limited to professionals alone. Additionally, they are excellent for those who have braces or if a dentist determines that you need mouth protection for whatever reason.
For instance, if you've recently undergone oral surgery, there will be a critical juncture in your recovery during which you'll be especially susceptible to sustaining further damage to your teeth. Those who are at a high risk of sustaining an injury to their mouth may benefit from wearing a custom-made mouth protector. Despite the fact that these protectors can be quite expensive and need to be fitted by a dentist, they provide enough protection.
How exactly do mouthguards accomplish their job?
A common misconception concerning mouthguards is the idea that they offer unrivaled defense against damage to the teeth and gums. However, despite their usefulness, mouthguards do not provide the same level of defense as other forms of protection.
Damage to the mouth caused by a severe blow to the face or head can be disastrous and may necessitate more than one surgical procedure. It is possible for mouthguards to lessen the likelihood of oral injury, but they cannot eliminate the possibility totally.
Even injuries that don't appear to be too serious can cause significant problems for the mouth. If you ignore the problem, even something as minor as a chipped tooth could result in an infection, a deepening of cavities, and additional harm. Damage to a tooth that results in an abscess is another urgent condition that can arise.
A mouthguard's secondary function is to maintain proper alignment and placement of all of the teeth within the mouth. Teeth have the potential to splinter and cut the gums or the roof of the mouth if a mouthguard is not used. You also run the risk of swallowing the broken parts of a tooth by unintentionally.
Mouth injuries pose the greatest threat, as they can result in permanent disfigurement if they are severe enough. In the event that you sustain a serious damage to your mouth, it has the potential to change your appearance for the rest of your life. In the worst-case situation, this type of oral trauma might potentially cause damage to the nerves.
If you engage in strenuous physical activity, it is strongly recommended that you use a mouthguard rather than risking injury to your teeth and gums by not using one.
If you wear a night guard, would it damage your teeth?
Another common misunderstanding is that wearing a sleep guard will make your teeth worse rather than better. Night-guards are a type of mouthguard that is worn at night, and their primary function is to protect teeth from being damaged while the wearer is asleep. It is significantly more likely that you will damage your teeth if you do not use a night guard when it is required.
When you grind your teeth as you sleep, the outer surfaces of your teeth become worn down, which can lead to damage over time. At some point in the future, the teeth might break, chip, or develop a cavity.
This misunderstanding originates from the fact that night guards can cause gradual shifts in the position of teeth over time. In point of fact, this is the reason why a lot of dentists utilize them. When we are younger and our mouths are still developing, this is an effective method for realigning our teeth.
If you use a night guard, you could notice that grooves are beginning to appear in your teeth. It's not a problem with the mouthguard's functionality. It is more likely that the guard does not fit properly, in which case you ought to have it checked out by your dentist.
What kind of maintenance does a mouthguard require?
The encouraging news is that mouthguards can be cleaned with relative ease.
You can rinse it out with regular mouthwash or with water that has been soapy, whichever you prefer. The use of cold water is required for this approach since hot water has the potential to change the contour of the guard over time.
It is in your best interest to keep your equipment away from areas that are subject to extreme heat or direct sunshine.
If you do need to transport your mouthguard, however, you should store it in a container that is both compact and robust so that you do not risk accidently harming it.
When not in use, a mouthguard made of acrylic should be stored in water to prevent it from drying out. In the event that this does not occur, the materials will be harmed, and the price of purchasing an acrylic mouthguard will have been for naught.
How long do mouthguards typically remain effective?
If you take proper care of your mouth guards, they should last you for a very long time. However, whenever you begin to see signs of wear and tear, it is highly recommended that you replace them with a new set.
You should search for regions in which the guard is no longer fitting as snugly over your teeth as it did in the past. When you first obtain a mouthguard, it may not feel as comfortable as it does later, once you have been accustomed to wearing it in your mouth for longer and longer lengths of time.
It is imperative that you never keep using a broken mouth protector since you run the risk of causing damage to your teeth. If you take the necessary precautions to maintain it, a quality mouth guard should last for several months, unless your dentist advises you otherwise.
How much do mouthguards cost when purchased from the dentist?
If you choose the usual sort of mouthguard, you won't often spend a lot of money on one. You can purchase quite a lot of these from retail outlets for around $20 each. From that point on, the cost of customizable protectors will increase.
It is possible to spend anywhere from $100 to several hundred dollars on a high-quality mouthguard purchased from a dentist. Everything is determined by the kind of material you require as well as the function of the guard.
There is an increase in cost associated with the molding process when a customized mouth guard is required.
Because of this, a lot of people decide to go with a high-quality boil-and-bite mouthguard instead.
Nevertheless, if the health benefits outweigh the cost of hiring an expensive guard, you might not have any other option but to do so.
The price of a mouth guard can also be estimated based on the brand name of the mouth guard.
Which dental mouthguard is the most effective?
The most effective dental mouthguard is one that is both comfortable and effective in its primary function, which is to safeguard your smile.
What kind of defense do you need? That will help you choose the best one for your circumstances. For example, the Smile Brilliant Night Guard is the most effective guard for usage during the nighttime hours.
Because there is such a wide variety of mouth guards and night guards available, it is in your best interest to speak with a dentist in your area. It's possible that a badly picked guard won't operate at all, or that it won't work as well.
Do not delay in getting a mouthguard if you believe that you require one. Make an appointment as soon as possible to safeguard and maintain the health of your smile.
CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT!
GET TO KNOW YOUR BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN
Dr. Marianne Cohan was voted 15 - time Best of Las Vegas from The Las Vegas Review-Journal. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992.
With an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry, complete makeovers, and implant dentistry, Dr. Cohan is committed to continuing education and feels that we never stop learning. Dr. Cohan takes pride in using high-powered magnification to perform minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She uses all the latest technological advances including digital radiography, digital photography, computer simulations, and high-resolution pictures of your proposed treatment on 55-inch screens. She also utilizes CBCT (cone beam) and laser technology.
Dr. Cohan is always available to her patients and is available for any dental emergency.
National Facial Protection Month is celebrated in April, and people from all areas of life should mark their calendars accordingly. It is sponsored by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the Academy for Sports Dentistry, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
The campaign's goal is to educate and remind us of the importance of protecting our faces and teeth from impacts and injuries.
The use of a helmet may save your life and avoid catastrophic bodily injury in a range of scenarios, ranging from playing football to riding a bicycle. In accordance with the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, wearing a helmet may lower the risk of different types of head injuries by up to 86%, depending on the situation.
If helmet rules apply in your region or not, Dr. Marianne Cohan and our staff at Summerlin Dental Solutions want you to be sure you and your loved ones are wearing helmets with the necessary safety ratings for the activities in which they participate. (This grade is generally shown by a sticker on the outside or inside of the helmet.) Additionally, if your helmet comes with an attached faceguard, which is a must-have for football players and other athletes who participate in contact sports, your teeth may be saved as well!
Preventing Dental Injuries is important.
You may avoid a number of dental injuries by wearing a mouth guard, such as cracking, breaking, or knocking out teeth. According to the American Oral Association, mouth guards are critical in avoiding up to 200,000 dental injuries each year, and several states require the wearing of mouth guards during sports activities such as football and hockey. The Academy for Sports Dentistry, on the other hand, cautions that in order to be successful, these mouth guards must be custom fitted and exact as possible.
Allow our experts at Summerlin Dental Solutions to custom mold and fit you with a high-quality mouth guard that provides superior protection than a generic store-bought or "boil-and-bite" kind. These less expensive alternatives have a tendency to wear out more rapidly, to interfere with appropriate breathing, and to offer varying degrees of impact cushioning. Always get a new mouth guard fitted before the start of each new athletic season.
Protect your teeth and face this April by wearing the proper combination of a helmet, faceguard, and mouth guard, and encourage your friends to do the same! Please contact our Summerlin Dental Solutions office if you have any questions regarding mouth guards or if you would like to arrange an appointment with Dr. Marianne Cohan in Las Vegas, Nevada.
CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT!
GET TO KNOW YOUR BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN
Dr. Marianne Cohan was voted 15 - time Best of Las Vegas from The Las Vegas Review-Journal. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992.
With an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry, complete makeovers, and implant dentistry, Dr. Cohan is committed to continuing education and feels that we never stop learning. Dr. Cohan takes pride in using high-powered magnification to perform minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She uses all the latest technological advances including digital radiography, digital photography, computer simulations, and high-resolution pictures of your proposed treatment on 55-inch screens. She also utilizes CBCT (cone beam) and laser technology.
Dr. Cohan is always available to her patients and is available for any dental emergency.
CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT!
