Bruxism: A Look at Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

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Grinding of the teeth, which is technically referred to as bruxism in the dentistry field, can have negative effects on the health of your smile. From broken and worn teeth to sore jaws, the negative implications can be severe. Find out the causes, symptoms, and treatment for bruxism that every dental patient needs to know.

Bruxism: A Look at the Common Causes

Bruxism is not a condition that really has a definitive cause. However, there are a few people who are more at risk of grinding their teeth. For example, people who have issues with anxiety, take certain medications, or have a family history of teeth grinding may be more at risk. Children may also be more likely to grind their teeth than adults, especially during sleep.

How Do You Know If You Grind Your Teeth?

Many people who grind their teeth have no idea that they have a problem because they most commonly do it while they are asleep. However, there can still be some telltale signs that may mean you are grinding your teeth, such as:

  • Waking up with your jaws feeling stressed and tired
  • Feeling like your teeth hurt for no other reason, especially upon waking
  • You have worn places on your teeth where they contact each other

A quick visit to the dentist can also tell you whether or not you are dealing with bruxism. Dentists are familiar with what teeth look like when the patient has been grinding them.

Common Treatments for Bruxism

If a dentist does diagnose you with bruxism, they may take a few different steps to help you with the issue. First and foremost, any damage done to your teeth will be attended to. Secondly, the dentist may prescribe you a mouth guard that you can wear while you are sleeping. In some cases, certain types of medication can help combat the problem as well.

Talk to a Dentist in Sugar Land, TX About Bruxism

Even though grinding your teeth may seem like no big deal, an ongoing issue can lead to permanent damage to your smile. If you suspect you may have an issue with bruxism, contact us at First Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to schedule an appointment.

What Causes a Receding Gum Line?

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Gingival tissue (aka gum tissue) is designed to support and protect the roots of the teeth. However, when gum recession occurs, these protective tissues start wearing away and retracting. As the gum line retracts, it gradually exposes the roots of the teeth. Once the roots are exposed, they are no longer being protected from the bacteria and plaque. As time passes, periodontal pockets form in between the teeth and the gingival tissue. These pockets provide bacteria a place to thrive while they attack the teeth and gums. Unless treatment is sought soon, tooth loss is likely.

Are There Any Risk Factors Associated with Developing a Receding Gum Line?

Yes, there are factors that can increase the likelihood of an individual developing a receding gum line.

Some of these risk factors are:

  • Having diabetes.
  • Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, puberty and menopause).
  • Being older than 65.
  • Jaw clenching/Teeth grinding.
  • Piercings on the tongue and/or the lip.
  • A misaligned bite/crooked teeth.

Potential Causes of a Receding Gum Line

Some of the factors leading up to gum recession are beyond an individual’s control, however, there are other factors that can be addressed to prevent or to slow the progression of a receding gum line.

Potential causes:

Using Tobacco Products

People who smoke or chew tobacco are more likely to develop a receding gum line. Tobacco use leads to the buildup of a sticky film (i.e., plaque) on the teeth. This plaque can be difficult to remove and, if it is left to harden into calculus (aka tartar), it can only be removed by a dental professional. When tartar is left to build up, gum recession can result.

Brushing Technique and/or the Use of a Hard-Bristled Toothbrush

While brushing, circular strokes should be used. In addition, soft-bristled toothbrushes are recommended because the hard-bristled brushes can actually wear away tooth enamel, which increases the likelihood of cavity development.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Neglecting to brush and floss daily results in a buildup of plaque and tartar: This buildup provides the bacteria with plenty of sustenance, allowing them to multiply and reside comfortably.

Genetics

Some people have a higher risk of developing receding gums because of their genetic disposition When other family members have experienced gum recession, it is a good idea to let Dr. Alan Imrek know so he can be vigilant and watch for any changes that indicate a receding gum line may be developing.

Gingivitis – Periodontitis

This is actually the main reason that gum recession occurs. When an individual has gingivitis, the bacteria in the mouth are destroying the gingival tissue. Left untreated, the gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. Once this progression occurs, both the teeth and the gingival tissue may sustain damage.

Recognizing a Receding Gum Line

Since the onset of a receding gum line is gradual, many people do not realize that their gums are receding until the disease has progressed quite a bit. However, if symptoms are evident, contacting First Dental at 281-494-3368 right away to schedule an appointment is vital to the health of your teeth and gums.

Signs of a receding gum line include:

  • Bleeding while flossing and/or brushing.
  • Tooth sensitivity.
  • Pain at and around the gum line.
  • Teeth appear longer.
  • Loose teeth.
  • Exposed roots.
  • Red, irritated gingival tissue.

If any signs of gingivitis are present, you need to contact Dr. Alan Imrek’s office right away at 281-494-3368, otherwise, the gingivitis may progress to periodontitis.

 

Common Myths Associated with Dental Bridges

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For people who are missing teeth, bridges can be one of the most viable ways to complete their less-than-perfect smile. Dental bridges are reliable, effective, and long-lasting, but there are a lot of myths about these dental devices that breed confusion. Here is a look at some of the most common myths associated with dental bridges and the facts you should know.

Myth: Dental bridges Are Easy to See

Old-fashioned bridges were often anchored in place with metal pieces that secured around surrounding teeth, and, yes, these devices could be visible. However, modern bridges are placed over existing teeth or abutments, so the support system is the tooth or the abutment and not an anchoring device. Therefore, if you opt for one of these bridges, you can wear it, smile nice and big, and never really be concerned that people can see the bridge.

Myth: Dental bridges Break Easily and Are Not Worth It

As long as the teeth surrounding the bridge that support it are in healthy shape and the bridge is properly installed, the device can actually last a really long time. Bridges do not break easily contrary to the myth; they are actually made out of durable materials for anchoring and any prosthetic teeth are composite or resin, which can be just as strong as your regular teeth.

Myth: Dental bridges Take a Long Time to Install

Dental bridges can often be installed in one visit, but it may take about two visits for the work to be complete. The surrounding anchor teeth or abutments are first prepared for installation, and then casting is done to make sure the bridge teeth have the proper shape and form to anchor in place and blend in with the rest of your smile. It usually does not take more than a few visits to get a bridge complete so you can go on about your life.

Reach Out to First Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry for Information About Dental Bridges

For many people, dental bridges have given them a smile they can confidently share. If you believe you may be a good candidate for a dental bridge, reach out to us at First Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Sugar Land, TX for an appointment.

Natural Ways to Help Prevent Periodontal Disease

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Periodontal disease is a serious dental disease that can lead to teeth shifting and teeth loss as well as other overall heath issues. It comes on slowly over time and is usually preventable, yet many people fail to take steps to prevent periodontal disease. Preventing periodontal disease doesn’t take a whole lot of effort. In fact, there are some very simple and natural ways that you can prevent this disease from developing.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

The first thing you can do to prevent periodontal disease is to visit your dentist regularly. This doesn’t require any special effort on your part, except for making the appointments and showing up. With regular visits, your dentist can monitor your dental health and treat any first signs of developing periodontal disease.

Make Your Own Oral Rinse

With your dentist’s permission, you can make and use your own natural oral rinse at home. There are several solutions that may be effective. One is to make a rinse with apple cider vinegar. The acidity of the apple cider vinegar may kill harmful mouth bacteria and keep your mouth free of germs. Another rinse can be made with warm water, a few drops of lemon juice and some salt. This is said to work for similar reasons as the apple cider vinegar rinse. Before switching to a homemade oral rinse, consult with your dentist.

Avoid Processed Foods

Processed foods tend to be filled with sugars and chemical additives. These ingredients are not conducive to optimal oral health. Avoiding processed foods is a natural way to help prevent periodontal disease, and it will also aid your overall health. To bring this step into action, substitute sugary processed snacks with fresh fruits. At home, instead of dipping fish and chicken into breading and deep frying, try broiling or roasting. At work, skip the processed vending machine snacks and opt for bringing salads and homemade granola from home.

These small little changes will help to keep periodontal disease at bay. As always, before you make any changes to your dental hygiene routines, talk to your dentist. Your dentist may be able to offer even more ideas for preventing periodontal disease using natural methods.

10 Foods That Are Bad For Your Teeth

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If you’re like most people, maintaining a healthy smile is important to you. But did you know that there are certain foods beverages that are bad for your teeth? Following are 10 of them.

two girls drinking juiceCitrus

Citrus contains serious amounts of acid, and this can erode tooth enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay. Rinse your mouth after enjoying a piece of citrus fruit, and consider using a straw when drinking citrus juice.

Chips

Chips break into pieces while they’re being eaten that easily become lodged between the teeth. The starch in chips gets converted to sugar in your mouth, so rinse thoroughly after eating them.

Dried Fruit

Because dried fruit is sticky, it can get stuck between the crevices of the teeth and leave behind deposits of concentrated sugars. If you love dried fruit, be sure to brush and floss after eating it.

Hard Candy

Hard candy is tough on your teeth because trying to chew it may result in broken or chipped teeth, and holding it in your mouth to dissolve literally coats your teeth with sugar. Avoid it except for on special occasions, and be sure to brush and floss after indulging.

Carbonated Beverages

Drinking carbonated beverages are another way to ensure that your teeth become coated in sugar. Using a straw helps with this, but try drinking water instead.

Alcohol

Alcohol coats the teeth with sugar, and certain kinds can leave stains. The dehydrating effect of alcohol also results in less saliva production, and saliva promotes a healthy mouth and teeth.

Energy Drinks

Although most people don’t associate energy drinks with sugar, most of them contain plenty of it. Rinse your mouth out afterward and consider using a straw.

Bread

Bread gets stuck between the teeth and contains a surprising amount of sugar — and the carbs it contains are actually transformed into more sugar when you chew it.

Fruit Juice

Fruit juice is another sugar-laden beverage that leaves your teeth coated in sugar, and the darker kinds can stain your teeth as well.

Crackers

Crackers have the same issues as chips and bread — their starch turns to sugar, and they easily get stuck between your teeth. As with other food and beverage item that potentially harm the teeth, rinse thoroughly, or better yet, brush and floss after indulging.

Please don’t hesitate to give us a call for more information on cultivating a healthy mouth and teeth.

Treatments for Tooth Enamel Loss

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Teeth grinding, aggressive brushing, abrasive foods, and acidic beverages can all take a toll on your tooth enamel. This thin, hard layer of protective material shields your teeth from painful temperatures and safeguards them while you’re chewing.

Because enamel has no living cells, the body cannot repair damaged enamel. Once it chips or cracks, some restoration treatment is needed. How your dentist treats enamel erosion depends on both the cause of the damage and the severity.

During your consultation at First Dental in Sugar Land, Dr. Imrek will carefully evaluate the severity of your condition. Following are some treatment options to restore your gorgeous smile.

Same-Day Mouth Guard Treatment

If your tooth enamel loss is due to teeth grinding or clenching, a.k.a. bruxism, a mouth guard can protect you while you sleep. If stress is causing you to grind your teeth, Dr. Imrek may also recommend:

  • Stress management
  • Relaxation exercises
  • Biofeedback mechanisms
  • Physical exercise program

Bonding

If enamel loss is not significant, bonding can be used as a restorative procedure for teeth that are chipped or cracked. Dr. Imrek prepares the tooth by lightly etching (roughening) the surface and applying a bonding liquid. He then applies a plastic resin and sculpts it into the desired shape. Once the resin sets, it’s trimmed, smoothed, and polished to produce a natural appearance.

Dr. Imrek often completes the bonding procedure in a single office visit. Bonding typically lasts three to five years before needing repair.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are very thin shells of ceramic that bond directly to the front surfaces of the teeth. They create a beautiful, natural-looking smile, and are especially helpful when enamel damage is extensive or more than one tooth is involved.

Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to stains from coffee, tea, wine, and cigarettes. Dr Imrek works with a dental lab that provides a lifetime warranty on all porcelain veneers, assuming they’re cared for properly. Veneers are a very popular and successful restorative option.

If you’re concerned that tooth enamel loss is marring your smile, please call or visit First Dental in Sugar Land today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Imrek. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy smile that is both beautiful and functional.

Causes of Tooth Pain

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If you have sudden or chronic pain tooth pain, it’s important that you get it diagnosed as soon as possible. Some causes of tooth pain are very temporary and not serious. Other reasons can be very serious and require the services of a professional dentist. Here some common causes of tooth pain.

Inflammation of the Tooth Pulp

Inflammation of the tooth pop is also called pulpitis. What happens with this condition is that the nerve of the tooth, or tooth pulp, is inflamed. This inflammation and irritation leads to the buildup of pressure inside the tooth and causes a toothache. Depending on the severity of the pulpitis, your tooth pain may be light or extremely uncomfortable.

Tooth Abscess

Another common cause of tooth pain is a tooth abscess. An abscess comes about from the buildup of bacteria inside the actual pulp of the tooth. This infection leads to the production of a kind of mucus that starts to drain out from the root of the tooth. It’s the pressure from draining that causes the pain that you become aware of when you have a tooth abscess.

Cracked Tooth

If you have tooth pain, it could be because you have a cracked tooth. A cracked tooth can happen for various reasons, including eating foods that are very hard. If your teeth are not strong, to begin with, eating something as simple as extra crunchy fried chicken may cause a cracked tooth. Habits like chewing ice can also lead to a cracked tooth.

Cavity

Having a cavity is the most common cause of tooth pain. A cavity is a hole in the tooth caused by bacteria. Many people have cavities, leading to the assumption that it is inevitable. However, with good oral hygiene, you can avoid cavities.

These are several common causes of tooth pain. If you do have tooth pain, it’s essential that you make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible. Long-term good oral health is dependent upon timely diagnosis and treatment by your dentist.

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