How a General Dentist Can Diagnose and Treat Teeth Grinding

Your general dentist will know if you have bruxism or teeth grinding. This habit involves grinding your teeth together. Long-term bruxism leads to jaw pain and dental issues. Children with hyperactivity disorder and adults with constant stress often have bruxism. The dentist will examine wear patterns on the teeth and check for jaw tenderness. Signs include flattened, chipped, or cracked teeth, tooth sensitivity, and jaw or ear pain. Treatment options include a custom night guard to prevent grinding during sleep, stress management techniques, and dental restorations to repair damaged teeth. The dentist may also recommend physical therapy or other interventions to relax the jaw muscles.