If you’re like most people, you probably don’t give much thought to your teeth-grinding habits. After all, it’s not exactly a topic of conversation at the dinner table. But if you’re regularly grinding your teeth, it could be doing serious damage to your oral health. But this brings up a vital question: Why is it bad to grind your teeth?
Teeth grinding (also known as bruxism) is a condition that causes people to unconsciously grind their teeth while they’re awake or asleep. While it may not seem like a big deal, bruxism can lead to a number of serious dental problems, including:
- Wearing down of the tooth enamel
- Damage to the tooth roots
- Jaw pain and stiffness
- Headaches
- In severe cases, bruxism can even lead to tooth loss.
If you think you may be grinding your teeth, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. They can help you identify the causes of your grinding habits and develop a treatment plan to protect your teeth from further damage.
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for teeth grinding, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the condition:
- Avoiding caffeine and alcohol
- Practicing stress-relieving techniques like yoga or meditation
- Wearing a mouth guard at night
If you suspect that you may be grinding your teeth, don’t wait to get help. Dentists in Evanston are here to provide you with the dental care you need to keep your smile healthy and bright. Contact team of Stephens Dentistry to schedule an appointment.
