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Teeth Grinding Dentist in Brimfield, IL

Don’t let bruxism permanently damage your teeth

Clenching and grinding your teeth while you sleep (also called bruxism) is a common but involuntary issue. If you think you might have a problem with teeth grinding, book online today and let’s talk. This dental issue is often a sign of larger problems and needs immediate treatment to reduce adverse health effects and help you feel better.

What happens when you grind your teeth?

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Enamel wears away

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Cavities develop

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TMJ and jaw pain become common

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Gum recession develops

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Teeth may chip or fracture

Should I see a dentist for teeth grinding?

Yes! People can clench their teeth with a force of up to 250 pounds. That’s a lot of strain on your teeth!

    However, many people don’t even realize they’re grinding their teeth until someone tells them or they begin to notice the side effects. So keep an eye on these signs of teeth grinding:

    • Waking up with a headache or jaw pain
    • A tense or stiff jaw or neck
    • TMJ (popping, clicking jaw)
    • Toothaches 
    • Tooth sensitivity
    • Increased wear on your teeth (look for visible ridges or chipping)
    • Teeth that appear shorter than they used to

    How do you stop teeth grinding?

    • Talk to your dentist
    • Treat any sleep breathing disorders
    • Massage for your jaw muscles, especially right before bed
    • Try meditation, yoga, or counseling to limit stress and relax
    • Become more conscious of your day-time clenching, relax your jaw muscles whenever you notice it
    • Stop chewing everything but food (no gum, mints, ice, etc.)

    Hear from our patients

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    The atmosphere in the office is warm and welcoming. The doctor and staff genuinely care about you as an individual as well as the health of your teeth and gums.

    – Ruth L.

    Good To Know

    During your twice-a-year exams, our dentists will look for signs of bruxism. Since many people don’t know they grind their teeth at night, this is just one more reason why keeping up on these routine visits is so important!

    Professional treatments for bruxism

    After ruling out sleep breathing issues, most cases of bruxism can be greatly helped with a custom-made night guard. However, depending on how much damage your tooth grinding has caused, we may also need to do some repairs. This might include:

    • Fillings
    • Crowns
    • Gum recession treatment
    • Bonding

    More questions about grinding your teeth?

    We’d love to hear from you and answer your concerns. Call us at (309) 320-8750 or book online now.

    Hours

    Monday: 7am–3pm
    Tuesday: 7am–3pm
    Wednesday: 8:30am–3pm
    Thursday: 7am–3pm
    Friday: 7am–3pm

    Office

    232 E. Knoxville St.
    Brimfield, IL 61517

    Get Directions

    Call (309) 320-8750