How Bruxism Damages Healthy Teeth

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common yet serious condition that can damage your teeth over time. Many people clench or grind their teeth unconsciously, often while sleeping. Without proper intervention, bruxism can lead to severe dental complications, including enamel erosion, tooth fractures, and chronic jaw pain.
If you experience symptoms of bruxism, seeking treatment is essential to prevent long-term damage. Custom mouth guards are the only proven solution to protect your teeth while you sleep. For expert care in Boulder, CO, Dr. Mohelicki provides high-quality, customized treatment to help safeguard your oral health. Learn how bruxism affects your teeth and why prevention is crucial.
Enamel Erosion and Tooth Sensitivity
Your enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth, but bruxism gradually wears it down. Enamel does not regenerate, so once it is lost, your teeth become vulnerable to decay and sensitivity. As grinding continues, you may experience sharp pain when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
Without intervention, enamel erosion can lead to more serious issues, such as cavities and increased risk of infection. Preventing further wear with a custom mouth guard can help preserve your enamel and maintain a strong, healthy smile.
Increased Risk of Cracks and Fractures
Bruxism places immense pressure on your teeth, often leading to chips, cracks, or fractures. Even small fractures weaken the tooth structure, making them more susceptible to breaking or requiring extensive dental work, such as crowns or root canals.
Over time, consistent grinding can cause significant damage that may require tooth extractions or costly restorations. A custom mouth guard acts as a protective barrier, reducing the force exerted on your teeth and preventing breakage.
Jaw Pain, TMJ Disorders, and Headaches
Bruxism not only affects your teeth but also puts stress on your jaw muscles and joints. Many individuals with bruxism experience persistent jaw pain, tension headaches, or even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
TMJ disorders can cause difficulty chewing, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, and overall discomfort. Managing bruxism early with a custom mouth guard helps alleviate strain on the jaw and reduces the risk of long-term complications.
Protect Your Smile with Dr. Mohelicki in Boulder, CO
If you suffer from teeth grinding, it is important to take action before significant damage occurs. Custom mouth guards provide the most effective solution to prevent enamel erosion, fractures, and jaw pain.
Dr. Mohelicki offers expert care in Boulder, CO, providing personalized treatment to protect your oral health. To schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Mohelicki at (303) 443-0998 or visit our practice to learn more about available services.