The Long-Term Damage of Untreated Bruxism Highlights The Importance of Night Guard Therapy

Untreated bruxism, a condition which results in the clenching or grinding of teeth, can (and usually does) lead to a range of long-term dental and overall health issues. Bruxism often occurs while one sleeps, making it challenging for individuals to recognize and address without professional intervention by our dentists and the team at Positive Image Dental in Devonshire, Bermuda. However, there is good news! Treatments are available. One such solution is a custom-fit nightguard.

The Long-Term Damage of Untreated Bruxism

Using a solution like a nightguard can be a great help in minimizing and eliminating the damaging effects of bruxism. Here are some potential long-term damages of untreated bruxism and reasons why patients should consider nightguards:

1. Tooth Wear and Damage: Bruxism subjects the teeth to excessive force, leading to wear, chipping, and fracturing of the enamel. Over time, untreated bruxism can wear down the biting surfaces of the teeth, flatten the cusps, and expose the underlying dentin, increasing the risk of tooth sensitivity and decay.
2. Gum Recession: The repetitive grinding and clenching motions associated with bruxism can contribute to gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots. Gum recession compromises the smile’s aesthetics and increases the risk of tooth decay, root sensitivity, and periodontal disease.
3. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Bruxism can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders characterized by pain, stiffness, clicking, or popping in the jaw joint. The excessive strain placed on the TMJ from bruxism can result in inflammation, muscle tension, and joint dysfunction, causing discomfort and affecting jaw mobility.
4. Headaches and Facial Pain: Chronic bruxism can contribute to tension headaches, migraines, and facial pain. The constant muscle tension and pressure exerted on the jaw and facial muscles during grinding can lead to headaches, jaw pain, earaches, and facial soreness, negatively impacting the quality of life.
5. Sleep Disturbances: Bruxism can disrupt sleep patterns and quality, leading to daytime fatigue, irritability, and decreased cognitive function. The noise generated by teeth grinding can also disturb the sleep of partners or household members, affecting their overall well-being.
6. Dental Treatment Costs: Untreated bruxism may necessitate extensive dental treatments to repair the damage caused by grinding and clenching. Restorative procedures such as fillings, crowns, or even tooth replacement may be required to address tooth wear, fractures, and other brux-related issues, resulting in increased dental treatment costs over time.

If you seek treatment for your bruxism, you can ask our Devonshire, BM area dentists at Positive Image Dental about custom nightguards. Please call (441) 292-2312 to schedule an appointment with the team.