For the last year and a half, the COVID-19 pandemic has upended the lives of countless people across the world. Many of us have had to endure a myriad of issues that have added stress to our lives, and this added stress has wreaked havoc on our physical health, including our teeth and jaws.
According to the American Dental Association, the stress from the pandemic has negatively impacted our oral health. Over the past several months, more and more people have shown signs of dental wear and jaw pain caused by teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching.
Though many people’s smiles may have experienced wear and sensitivity, our team at Carrollwood Village Dental can help you and your loved ones relieve the painful symptoms of bruxism.
Let’s Look at the Facts
A recent ADA survey revealed some astonishing results. According to the survey, nearly 70 percent of dentists have reported an increase in patients who live with teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching. Also, The American Dental Association Health Policy Institute conducted a study that indicated the following:
- Out of the dentist surveyed, 71 percent reported an increase in teeth grinding and clenching.
- Around 63 percent of dentists who did the survey reported an increase in chipped and cracked teeth.
With numbers like these, receiving regular dental care may be more important than ever!
Common Signs and Symptoms of Bruxism
Many patients don’t often realize they grind or clench their teeth because it usually occurs during sleep. Because of this, treatment for bruxism often doesn’t begin until an injury occurs, like a broken or cracked tooth. However, even if one of your teeth breaks, cracks, or chips, we can repair the tooth to its original appearance and function with cosmetic or restorative dentistry.
Here are some common signs and symptoms of bruxism you can watch out for:
- Enamel wear
- Abraded teeth
- Chipped or fractured teeth
- Heightened tooth sensitivity
- Tired or tense facial and jaw muscles
- Neck, head, and facial pain and soreness
- Frequent headaches
- Locked jaw
- Dislocation of the jaw
- Interrupted sleep
Dr. Mancuso can help you pinpoint the origin of your pain, relieve that pain, and treat any dental injuries that may have occurred.
How We Treat Bruxism and Teeth Clenching
For many people who have this problem, the root cause may not have been apparent. However, the only way to tell for certain is to visit your Tampa dentist for an examination. Oftentimes, TMD (temporomandibular disorder) and bruxism go hand-in-hand, but this is not always the case.
If you have noticed yourself grinding or clenching your teeth, we can help you get the treatment you need. Dr. Mancuso may prescribe splint therapy or oral appliances, such as a mouthguard or retainer. He can also review with you some effective methods for stress management, relaxation techniques, and individualized self-care suggestions.
Let Us Help Relieve Your Tooth Pain!
Are you tired of dealing with tooth pain or having tension in your jaws? Our team at Carrollwood Village Dental is here to help you alleviate any painful or uncomfortable symptoms of teeth grinding and clenching. To learn more about our bruxism treatments, please give us a call at (813) 961-2200.
We look forward to hearing from you!
