What is Bruxism?

Wilson, Greenville, Goldsboro, Rocky Mount, Raleigh & nearby areas

Wed, 09/26/2012

Bruxism refers to a condition where you clench or grind your teeth. This can occur during the day or at night, but is more common while you sleep. Bruxism can range in severity. In mild cases, you may not even need to treat the condition. However, in more severe cases bruxism can result in pressure on the muscles, tissue, and jaw joints. This can lead to headaches, damaged teeth, or jaw issues such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

Common symptoms of bruxism include:

  • Teeth grinding or clenching
  • Worn, flattened, fractured, or chipped teeth
  • Worn tooth enamel
  • Jaw pain or tightness in jaw muscles
  • Ear pain
  • Headaches
  • Chronic facial pain
  • Indentations on your tongue

If you experience jaw pain or other TMJ symptoms, it is possible that your condition is caused by bruxism. The dentists at Boles, Ham, Dixon & Boles will evaluate the condition of your teeth and jaw in order to determine the best way to alleviate your pain. In many instances, bruxism can be effectively treated by wearing a night guard while you sleep.

Please contact Boles, Ham, Dixon & Boles today to schedule your TMJ consultation. We serve patients in Wilson and Goldsboro, North Carolina.

Dixon Boles & Associates