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02
Oct
Causes and treatment for teeth grinding (Bruxism) in NC area
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ruxism, also known as teeth grinding, is a condition that can affect patients in NC and have a dramatic negative impact on their natural teeth, as well as result in many other side effects on the body. This condition causes patients to tighten and grind their teeth—typically overnight—which can cause unwanted wear and tear on tooth enamel as well as headaches, poor sleep, and pain around the neck and jaw area.
Many patients who learn about this condition want to know the suspected causes and treatment options for teeth grinding. It is believed that bruxism often stems from stress and anxiety, though other patients who have misaligned bites may also experience this problem. Dentists at Triad Dentistry are often the first to bring up the possibility of bruxism to patients when they see the wear on the natural teeth—the telltale sign that teeth grinding is occurring when patients least expect it.
Once patients speak with Drs. Steven Hatcher, Sona Isharani, and Chad Merrel realize that they are struggling with the condition, it is time to discuss treatments for teeth grinding. Treatment is often considered oral appliance therapy. A specialized mouthguard is made to fit precisely over the dental arch and is worn at night to not only reduce pressure in the mouth but to protect the natural teeth and restorations from breaking. This often occurs to patients who deal with bruxism because the pressure of the jaw can cause bridges, veneers, crowns, and other porcelain restorations to crack, break, or fall off of the natural tooth structure. This is another indication that patients may be dealing with teeth grinding.
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Oral appliance therapy will often protect the patients from experiencing damage to the smile. However, the source of the problem must be addressed. For patients with stress or anxiety-based bruxism, it is important for these individuals to find a way to access peace and calmness in their lives. These patients may want to try exercise, changes to their diet, or even counseling and therapy if stress and anxiety are beginning to consume their life. Patients with misaligned smiles might also want to discuss with the dentist the possibility of undergoing orthodontics to get teeth in more desirable positioning for better function.
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Dr. Steven L. Hatcher is a skilled dentist with extensive expertise in oral health and
patient care. A University of North Carolina alumnus with a background in biology and cancer research, Dr.
Hatcher's military service at prestigious locations, including Fort Meade and the Pentagon, underscores his
commitment to excellence. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and an active member of several
professional associations. Recognized for his dedication through numerous awards, including Army
Commendation Medals, Dr. Hatcher continually advances his knowledge through ongoing education. His
patient-centered approach ensures personalized, long-term oral wellness.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
