Mouthguard![]() What Causes Bruxism?People with bruxism grind their teeth and clench their jaws for various reasons. Stress is one. But things like anxiety, mouth injuries, gum disease, or sleep problems can also contribute to it. What causes bruxism is not always clear, so it can be tricky to figure out how to treat it. That is why talking to the dentist is an essential first step in dealing with any teeth grinding issues you might have. Dr. Cooke will want to do some tests and take x-rays before determining if there is a problem and which kind of treatment might be right for you. How Do I Know if I Have Bruxism?If you find yourself waking up in pain and with sore or swollen gums, you might have bruxism. This is a condition that affects more than three million Americans, according to recent studies. More than 80 percent of those affected are not even aware they have a problem. If left untreated, bruxism can lead to further dental problems and interfere with your daily life, making it difficult to speak clearly or eat properly. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with us right away at Gresham Dental Excellence so you can get started on treatment immediately. Your mouthguard should be worn at night only. There is no need for protection during waking hours as long as you are not grinding your teeth. For more information about mouthguards and bruxism, visit our dental clinic Gresham Dental Excellence. You can also call us at (971) 431-7292 to address your concerns. |