Dental problems can come in many different varieties, each with their unique causes that must be addressed in a certain fashion. If you’re dealing with dental problems in children as well as adults, it’s important to meet with a skilled dental care specialist who knows how to address the needs of patients of all ages. Many people visit our practice for dental pediatrics UK and family dentistry needs just for such reasons.

About Tooth Grinding

Also known as bruxism, tooth grinding refers to the clenching and grinding of the teeth that people often do late at night. It can lead to a number of different dental problems and general health problems. At our NYC laser and pediatric dentistry center, we can screen you and other members of your family for teeth grinding, regardless of age.

Causes of Tooth Grinding

Most people believe that stress is the most common cause of teeth grinding. While that is true to some extent--stress can contribute to tooth grinding, especially in adults--a major cause that people neglect to note is tooth misalignment. If your upper teeth and lower teeth do not fit properly together, this can lead to shifting and clenching at night.

Dangers of Tooth Grinding

Due to the strain placed on the jaw on a consistent basis, many people who grind their teeth complain of headaches, neck aches, and jaw pain. Sometimes this pressure on the jaw joints can lead to a TMJ disorder, which mean clicking, popping, and locking of the jaw. Too damage may also occur due to the strain and pressure. Sometimes UK oral surgery may be required to address some of these matters.

Can tooth grinding affect children?

While many people associate teeth grinding with adults, children also grind their teeth. A 2005 study published in the Journal of Dentistry for Children revealed that approximately 38 percent of children grind their teeth at night. You can imagine just how serious it can be if the teeth grinding persists into adulthood. Major dental problems may start early on in life and continue throughout their lives.

Treating Tooth Grinding

When treating tooth grinding itself, it’s important to address the root causes of the tooth grinding. If tooth misalignment is the cause of the grinding, then it’s important that a patient undergo some form of orthodontic care to help realign the teeth. Sometimes a bite guard may be used to help reduce contact between teeth at night and reduce tooth damage and strain on the jaw. For the tooth damage associated with tooth grinding, dental crowns or other smile makeover options may be required. We can definitely discuss all your treatment options in more detail during a consultation.

Learn More About Dental Care Treatments for the Whole Family

The dental care needs of children are often quite complex, which is why it’s important to discuss their needs with skilled dental care specialists such as Dr. Barry Jacobson. Speak with a skilled pediatric dentist serving Flushing the Bronx, Teaneck, Melville, and the greater New York City area today. You will be glad that you did.