For the most part, your oral health can be defined by habits. Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice every day is one of the most beneficial dental habits you can develop, along with attending your dental checkup and cleaning every six month or sooner. However, some destructive habits can have just as much of an influence, albeit a negative one, on the wellbeing of your teeth and gums. One such habit, which most people may not realize they do enough to cause a problem, is constantly grinding your teeth. Though normal in times of aggravation and distress, clenching your teeth on a regular basis can damage their structures as well as strain your jaw’s joints and muscles. Your San Jose dentist, Dr. LaFrom, explores a common cause of bruxism and the destructive force it can wreak on your dental health.
More than Just a Habit
The enamel that coats your teeth is the strongest substance your body produces, but it is not indestructible. Keeping your enamel strong and healthy with an adequate supply of minerals (i.e., calcium, phosphate, etc.) can help it withstand the pressures of everyday use, such as eating and speaking. However, not even healthy enamel can endure long under a constant barrage of clenching and grinding, and cracked/fractured teeth are but one common sign of bruxism.
In some cases, teeth-grinding can be a nervous tic that, with a little attention, you can phase out of your life. In many instances, however, bruxism is a sign that your jaw’s function may be in trouble. When strained jaw muscles and joints lead to TMJ disorder, the stress can lead to involuntary jaw-clenching. Regardless of its cause, however, bruxism can excessively wear down your teeth, leading to dental damage, a misaligned bite, and worsening TMJ discomfort.
Protect Your Oral Health with Help from San Jose Dentist
To learn more about bruxism and other dangers to your oral health, schedule a dental consultation with your San Jose dentist by calling LaFrom Dentistry at (408) 996-8595. Located in the 95014 area, we proudly serve patients from Cupertino, Saratoga, Campbell, Sunnyvale, San Jose, Santa Clara County, Silicon Valley, and the surrounding communities.
