Some oral health conditions become obvious. When you have a noticeable cavity on the surface of your tooth, you may see a dark spot. When gums become red and swollen, it may be a sign of gum disease. However, not every oral health condition is something you can diagnose on your own. That’s because some conditions happen inside your teeth, and some conditions affect you when you aren’t even awake to realize it. If you wake up in the morning with unexplained tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, or headaches, you may be suffering from a condition called “bruxism.” You don’t have to self diagnose this condition, you can work with your dentist.

Bruxism Affects Patients While They Sleep

Bruxism is the clinical term given to unconscious teeth grinding. You’ve probably caught yourself grinding your teeth before. It can happen when you’re stressed, anxious, or over-caffeinated. Occasional teeth grinding doesn’t represent a huge threat, but constant grinding can wear down the enamel of your teeth. Bruxism occurs while you sleep, which means you can’t control the condition. You may be sound asleep at night, but your teeth are grinding against each other, causing wear and pain when you wake up.

Bruxism May Be Caused by TMJ Disorders

Your bruxism may be the result of lifestyle factors like a stressful job or relationship. The problem may also be caused by a condition known as TMJ Disorders. TMJ is the shorthand given to the joints that hold your jaw in place and allow you to chew. Those joints can become misaligned or chronically inflamed, and this can cause you pain on it’s own. It can also contribute to bruxism. Treating TMJ Disorders and bruxism may seem daunting since these conditions harm you while you sleep. However, a simple solution from your dentist can help you combat these unconscious issues.

An Oral Appliance from Your Dentist Can Help with Bruxism

To prevent the harmful effects of bruxism from ravaging your teeth, you need to protect your teeth while you sleep. A custom oral appliance from your dentist can do just that. This appliance looks and functions much like a mouthguard, and its purpose is the same. The oral appliance will protect the surfaces of your teeth while you sleep so that you don’t experience premature wear. Restorative treatment through your dentist can typically repair any of the damage that may have already been caused by bruxism.

Treat Bruxism at Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA

If you’re feeling unexplained jaw or tooth pain when you wake up in the morning, the problem may be happening while you sleep. Your dentist can use digital imaging and examination techniques to determine whether or not you’re suffering from bruxism. Then they can treat the problem with an oral appliance. Treat your bruxism at Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA by calling our office at 319-364-7108.