If your jaw is sore when you wake up or your teeth are hurting, one of the reasons could be that you’re grinding your teeth at night. This is something many people don’t even realize they’re doing. At Sand Dollar Dental in Foley, AL, we see this problem often. Fortunately, there are many things we can do to help you rest easier and protect your teeth and jaw.

Why Do People Grind Their Teeth?

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is linked to stress, anxiety, or even misaligned teeth. Some people only do it at night, grinding their teeth because of sleep disorders like sleep apnea or certain medications that affect the nervous system. Others clench their teeth or grind them during the day. In any case, constant clenching can wear down enamel, chip teeth, and cause jaw pain or headaches.

Signs That You’re Grinding Your Teeth

Many people don’t realize they’ve been grinding their teeth until a tooth cracks or they have a sore jaw. Some signs to look for include:

• Worn or chipped teeth
• Jaw soreness or tightness
• Headaches or ear pain

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to talk to your dentist.

What Treatments Are There for Bruxism?

Your dentist may recommend a custom nightguard, which protects your teeth while you sleep and gives your jaw muscles time to rest. Your dentist may also be able to help with bite alignment issues. At home, you can aim to reduce.

Combat Bruxism With Sand Dollar Dental in Foley, AL

If you grind your teeth at night, don’t wait until doing so leads to pain or damage. Call us and schedule an appointment for bruxism in Foley, AL, to find out what’s causing it and get a personalized treatment plan to protect your smile.