02
Oct
Live a Painless Lifestyle with Bruxism Treatment at Triad Dentistry
Do you grind your teeth? You may not realize it because it happens subconsciously when sleeping, although sometimes it can occur when awake. Whatever time it happens, chronic teeth grinding (technically, bruxism) can severely affect oral health.
Triad Dentistry offers teeth-grinding relief in Greensboro, North Carolina, and the surrounding areas. Whether you have mild or severe bruxism, schedule an appointment with Drs. Steven Hatcher, Chad Merrell, and Bailey Walker. We’ll identify the root cause of your condition and offer lasting solutions for your teeth grinding.
Why should I be concerned with bruxism?
Teeth grinding can lead to several serious and sometimes irreversible consequences, though they can be managed properly. Many people with teeth grinding don’t know they grind their teeth until severe symptoms send them to the doctor. Unfortunately, unless the health practitioner makes a comprehensive diagnosis, they may miss the root cause of your headaches and prescribe painkillers, which only mask the problem.
Since most people are unaware of bruxism, dentists are often the first to notice the signs of teeth grinding by noticing cracks, chips, and fractures on your teeth. However, certain clues help you to know if you are a bruxer. These include:
• Jaw pain or soreness, especially in the morning
• Unexplained headaches
• Earaches and ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Pain when chewing or opening your mouth
• Flattened enamel or teeth getting shorter or chipped
• Your partner can hear the teeth-grinding noises
• Tooth Sensitivity
• Sleep deprivation, leading to daytime fatigue and sleepiness
Teeth grinding can affect anyone. It affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Children can start grinding teeth as soon as the first tooth appears. Over time, grinding wears down the enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to chips, cracks, and fractures. In severe cases, teeth may break, requiring repair with fillings, crowns, and root canals. In extreme cases, the pressure from grinding can cause teeth to loosen or even fall out, and you may need dental implants to restore function.
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What causes teeth grinding?
Most causes of teeth grinding are unknown, although stress and anxiety are common factors. Life offers plenty of stress, and many people find they have no choice but to endure it. However, our bodies have different mechanisms for dealing with everyday pressures. For instance, many people grind their teeth as a coping mechanism for stress, and this happens without them knowing.
People who smoke or take alcohol and drugs are more likely to grind their teeth. Besides, patients with sleep-disordered breathing conditions like sleep apnea clench and grind their teeth. Misaligned teeth and certain medications, especially antidepressants, can cause teeth grinding.
How is teeth grinding treated?
Stopping bruxism by yourself can be difficult because it happens while you sleep. When you visit our office, our dentist will discuss the cause with you. Often, we prescribe a customized nightguard to cushion your teeth and prevent further damage. An oral appliance prevents tooth-to-tooth contact and absorbs the teeth-grinding pressure to shield your teeth from damage.
If damage has already occurred, the dentist will assess the extent of the damage to determine the appropriate restorative treatment. Fillings repair minor cracks and enamel erosion, while crowns restore severely damaged teeth. Root canals may be required if the tooth pulp is damaged or infected.
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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.
