What are the signs of teeth grinding at night?
Dental bruxism - or teeth grinding/clenching - affects anywhere from 50-95% of people and many do not know they do so, until the dentist tells them of it!
So, here are some signs to look out for:
Your spouse tells you that you grind your teeth! No, they may not be dental professionals, but they may be able to hear you grind your teeth while you're sleeping - so don't be afraid to ask them (especially if they forget to tell you these things).
Your teeth are ground down or worn.
You get frequent headaches.
You experience facial pain.
There is tori development (hard bony protrusion out of the lower jaw).
You have sensitive teeth.
Tight facial and jaw muscles.
You have damaged teeth.
You don't necessarily have to have all the signs - and some people actually go symptom-free! However, if you are warned in the early stages, it's a good idea to invest in a night guard - before all the teeth wear away. A night guard is a plastic dental appliance, made specially to fit the patient's lower teeth. It acts to protect your teeth from night damage and our ALFIE Dentistry night guards also allows a proper seating of your teeth so that it's at its optimal position, the most relaxed state.
If you suspect that you grind your teeth or clench your jaw (ahem - or your spouse says so!), schedule yourself in for a specific examination to see if you are a good candidate to get a night guard. Our office phone number is (416) 226-6688.
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