How Can I Tell If I Grind My Teeth At Night?

Tooth grinding is something that some people do at night while they sleep. This condition is called “bruxism.” Bruxism can damage your teeth, causing pain and discomfort. Your dentist in Beaver Dam and Owensboro, KY can help you identify the signs of bruxism. Knowing the signs and seeing your dentist can help protect your teeth.

Know the Signs You Grind Your Teeth

Below are some of the signs that you grind your teeth at night.

• Your tooth enamel is worn
• Your teeth are sensitive
• Your teeth are cracked, broken, or loose
• You wake with a dull headache in the mornings
• You experience jaw pain and headaches
• Your sleep is routinely disrupted

If you grind your teeth, your spouse or bed partner may hear it. If your spouse has reported that you make grinding noises in your sleep, speak with your dentist for the next steps.

See the Dentist Regularly

If the symptoms of teeth grinding are subtle enough, you may not know you have bruxism. In this case, your dentist may still catch the problem when you come for a dental appointment.

Dentists can see the tell-tale signs of bruxism, like flattened tooth enamel and cracks in the teeth. This is one of the reasons why it’s so important to come in for dental exams in Beaver Dam and Owensboro, KY, every six months.

Get a Nightguard

If you grind your teeth at night, you’ll need to wear a nightguard to protect your tooth enamel. A custom-made nightguard from the dentist can help. Custom-made nightguards are often more comfortable and effective.

Take steps to protect your teeth from bruxism. Make an appointment with your dentist at Dr. Travis Wilson Family Dentistry.