To care for your smile in an effective manner is to pay attention to the various components that contribute to your oral health status. In other words, you must pay attention to more than just your teeth, as your oral health is affected by all of the components contained in the oral cavity. This includes your gums, tongue, cheeks, and more. While infections and bacteria-related issues are common, it is important to recognize that these are far from the only issues you may run into. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO dentist looks at the effects of chronic teeth grinding, including the possibility of developing a dangerous jaw condition.
Immediate Damage to Your Teeth
Whether you are aware of it or not, your smile is subject to several threats and other factors every single day. What’s more? Most of these factors cause a negative effect, and there are few and far between that offer benefits. As such, it is important to practice regular dental prevention and stay on top of smile care.
The thing is, this phenomenon is much easier said than done, as there are even more issues that impact your smile that prevention is no match for. Issues such as obstructive sleep apnea and chronic teeth grinding not only cause damage to your oral health, but left untreated, they will only continue to worsen.
Indeed, teeth grinding is a phenomenon that occurs when a person tightly clenches his or her teeth together and proceeds to move the lower jaw from side to side. As a result, the teeth grind together and wear down protective layers of enamel. This also leads to an increased risk of cracking or chipping.
How it Influences oral Function
In addition to the immediate effects of teeth grinding, you will endure functional complications as well. You see, constantly clenching your teeth together can lead to significant strain, which might make opening your mouth appropriately difficult to perform. Moreover, this leads to complications in your functional capabilities, including biting, chewing, and being able to eat.
It is important to recognize, too, that bruxism will not go away on its own, and the sooner you seek treatment, the better off you will be. Contact our team today to learn more about your options.
It Only Gets Worse
One of the biggest threats to your health when experiencing chronic teeth grinding is the development of a dangerous jaw dysfunction known as TMJ Disorder. This issue occurs when the lower jaw becomes misaligned from one of the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) at which it hinges to the cranium, resulting in a noticeable and painful popping or clicking sensation. Fortunately, an oral appliance can help.
Schedule Your Visit
Contact Delightful Dental Care in Kansas City, MO by calling 816-942-7669 to learn more about the damaging effects of untreated teeth grinding, and schedule your next appointment with our team today.