Aging can change your body in many ways, and your smile is no exception. For example, over the years, your teeth might start to look darker after exposure to deeply pigmented foods, or become chipped, cracked, or worn down.
However, if you suffer from bruxism, or teeth grinding, your constant clenching might age your grin prematurely. Continue reading to learn more about this condition and how to keep it from making you look older than you feel!
What is Bruxism?
Do you often wake up in the morning with a stiff or sore jaw, or have you been experiencing more headaches than usual recently? If so, you might be suffering from bruxism, or chronic teeth grinding.
This refers to a condition in which patients subconsciously clench their upper and lower arches together, which usually occurs at night during sleep, but can sometimes also happen during the day. Unfortunately, the constant pressure of biting down can trigger irritation and aches in your TMJ (temporomandibular joints) and contribute to the development of oral issues.
Can Bruxism Make Me Look Older?
Did you know that enamel is the hardest substance produced by the human body? It’s stronger even than bone, but that doesn’t mean it’s invincible. Daily biting and chewing can eventually wear down this protective outer layer, which doesn’t regenerate, so it won’t grow back or repair itself. As a result, aesthetic changes in your grin, like chips, cracks, discoloration, or worn-down teeth, are often associated with aging.
Unfortunately, bruxism can wear down your teeth prematurely or unevenly, contributing to an older-looking visage. Not only that, but you’re more likely to injure your enamel in its weakened condition, which can increase the risk of developing oral concerns, such as additional damage, decay, or disease, that can also negatively affect your smile’s appearance and functionality.
Is Bruxism Treatable?
If you suspect that chronic teeth grinding is impacting your dental condition, it’s time to contact your dentist! They can examine your mouth and take X-rays or other scans to identify the underlying cause of your concerns and provide an appropriate treatment plan.
If your provider determines bruxism is the culprit, they can provide a custom-fitted nightguard to reduce symptoms. These oral appliances provide a layer of cushion between your upper and lower arches to shield your enamel and help reduce tension on your TMJ to ease throbbing in the jaw or face.
Your dentist might also recommend additional services, such as dental bonding or a dental crown, to repair any damage and give you back a more youthful appearance!
About the Practice
Patients with NU Dental Eatontown benefit from two dentists dedicated to helping them improve their daily lives by enhancing their dental health. Dr. Admasu Gizachew (or “Dr. G”) and Dr. Wollek are both highly accomplished individually and collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including nightguards for bruxism, under one roof. Their caring and compassionate approach is combined with state-of-the-art technology to improve patient comfort while delivering accurate treatment results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (732) 863-3899.