Individuals grind their teeth while sleeping due to a combination of stress, abnormal bite alignment, and muscle activity during sleep known as sleep bruxism. These factors cause jaw muscles to clench and teeth to rub together involuntarily. If left unmanaged, grinding can lead to worn enamel, jaw pain, headaches, and dental damage.
Many patients don’t realize they’re grinding until symptoms develop. This is where seeing a qualified dentist in Mount Pleasant matters. At Carolina Center for Restorative Dentistry, Dr. Mayur Patel and our team provide specialized care for TMJ disorders and bruxism.
What Causes Teeth Grinding?
Bruxism doesn’t have a single cause, but several common influences include:
- Stress and anxiety that increase muscle tension
- Sleep apnea-induced nighttime clenching
- Bite misalignment or untreated tooth loss, leading to uneven pressure
- Medications or stimulants, like caffeine
How Specialty TMJ Care Helps
Effective evaluation often includes a clinical exam, bite analysis, and sometimes imaging. From there, your dentist may recommend a customized nightguard to protect teeth and reduce muscle strain. In cases tied to TMJ dysfunction, targeted therapies can relieve joint stress and improve function.
If grinding continues unchecked, enamel wears down and can lead to fractures or sensitivity. This is why early intervention helps preserve your smile and prevent costly repairs.
Need a Bruxism and TMJ Treatment Dentist in Mount Pleasant, SC?
If you’re in Mount Pleasant and want to learn more about how TMJ or bruxism treatment can help offset the effects of grinding, contact Dr. Mayur Patel and the Carolina Center for Restorative Dentistry team to schedule a consultation.