Do you wake up with a sore jaw or headaches that make your morning coffee less enjoyable? You might be dealing with nighttime teeth grinding, also called bruxism.
Many people don’t even know they’re doing it because it happens while they sleep. If you’re experiencing teeth grinding in Blythewood, SC, you’re not alone. This common problem affects millions of people and can cause serious pain if left untreated.
Call Blythewood Village Dentistry at 803-653-6331 for an appointment.
The pain from teeth grinding feels different for everyone, but most people use similar words to describe it. Many say their jaw feels “tight” or “locked up” when they wake up.
Others describe a dull, aching pain that spreads from their jaw up to their temples. Some people say it feels like they’ve been chewing gum all night long.
Headaches are another common complaint. These aren’t your typical headaches. They usually start at the temples and can feel like a band squeezing around your head. The pain might be sharp and sudden, or it could be a constant, throbbing ache that lasts for hours.
Many people also notice their jaw muscles feel tender when they touch them, almost like they’ve been working out too hard.
Some patients describe clicking or popping sounds when they open their mouth to eat or talk. Others say their jaw feels “stuck” in the morning and takes time to loosen up. The pain can make simple activities like eating breakfast or brushing teeth uncomfortable.
When teeth grinding goes untreated, the pain typically gets worse in several ways. What starts as occasional morning soreness can become constant, all-day discomfort.
The muscles in your jaw work overtime during sleep, becoming stronger but also more tense. This creates a cycle where the muscles stay tight even during the day.
The headaches often become more frequent and intense. Instead of just morning headaches, you might start getting them throughout the day. The pain can spread to your neck and shoulders, creating tension that affects your whole upper body.
Some people develop problems with their jaw joint, called TMJ disorder, which can cause pain when opening their mouth wide or chewing tough foods.
Over months or years, teeth grinding in Blythewood can also damage your teeth. The constant pressure can cause teeth to crack, chip, or become loose. Your bite might change, making the jaw pain even worse.
TMJ treatment focuses on breaking the cycle of pain and protecting your teeth and jaw. Custom night guards are often the first line of defense. These special mouthpieces fit over your teeth while you sleep, cushioning them and reducing the pressure on your jaw muscles.
Your dentist might also recommend jaw exercises to help relax tight muscles and improve how your jaw moves. Some patients benefit from stress management techniques, since stress often makes grinding worse.
In more severe cases, other treatments like muscle relaxants or special dental work might be needed.
The key is getting treatment before the holidays arrive. Holiday stress, rich foods, and changes in routine can make teeth grinding in Blythewood worse. Starting treatment now gives your jaw time to heal before the busy season begins.
Don’t let jaw pain ruin your holiday celebrations.
Call Blythewood Village Dentistry at 803-653-6331 to schedule an appointment in Blythewood, SC. You can also request an appointment online.
