Austin Laser Dentist - Helen Ragsdale DDS, 11615 Angus Rd Ste 101, Austin 78759, United States (US) - Phone: 512 346-4690

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Ask an Austin Dentist: Does Teeth Grinding Really Destroy Your Teeth?

It’s true – teeth grinding can cause dental changes over time, and understanding how and why it happens helps you protect your smile. In this blog, your favorite Austin dentist explores the risks of bruxism, how it impacts dental structure, and what you can do to prevent long-term harm.

Do you suspect you might be grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw unknowingly? Luckily, a simple evaluation with Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist can reveal everything you need to know about your oral health. Contact us in Austin, TX, at (512) 346-4690 for a checkup now!

What Is Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)?

Teeth grinding is the habit of jaw clenching or teeth gritting, especially during sleep. Some people also grind while awake when stressed or focused. This repeated force places pressure on teeth and the supporting structures in the jaw. Fortunately, your Austin dentist evaluates signs of grinding during every single exam to ensure early detection and appropriate care.

How Grinding Affects Tooth Enamel

Repeated grinding can wear down the enamel layer on teeth over time. This wear appears as flattened surfaces, notches near the gumline, or cracks in the enamel.

Recent research shows that chronic bruxism increases the risk of progressive enamel loss and microfractures in the tooth surface. These microfractures can lead to deeper structural damage if grinding continues without intervention. 

Signs That Bruxism Is Damaging Your Teeth

Telltale signs of teeth grinding include:

Visible Wear and Flattened Teeth

One of the most common signs is worn-down teeth. Your Austin dentist often sees a flattened appearance on tooth surfaces that should be naturally curved.

Increased Tooth Sensitivity

As enamel thins, the underlying dentin becomes exposed. This can lead to sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods. Patients may notice tingling or discomfort that was not present before.

Chips and Cracks

Teeth can chip or crack when subjected to repetitive force. These defects may be small at first, but they can grow larger if grinding continues. Your Austin dentist can spot these issues early during an exam.

Gum Recession and Root Exposure

In some cases, grinding contributes to gum recession, which exposes sensitive root surfaces. This may increase the risk of periodontal problems. Regular checkups with Dr. Ragsdale help monitor gum health and address changes quickly.

Why Some People Grind Their Teeth

Bruxism is complex and can have multiple contributing factors, including:

  • Stress and anxiety
  • Sleep disorders, like snoring and sleep apnea
  • Bite misalignment 
  • Lifestyle factors, like caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drug use
  • Certain medications, like antidepressants

Protecting Your Teeth From Grinding Damage

According to our Austin dentist, protecting your teeth from bruxism is easier than you think. Here are some simple ways to fight teeth grinding:

Custom Mouth Guards

A custom night guard designed by your Austin dentist can protect against enamel wear. These appliances distribute biting forces more evenly and reduce direct tooth-to-tooth contact.

Stress Reduction Techniques

Practices like meditation, daily exercise, and behavioral therapy may help lower stress levels that trigger clenching during the day.

Improved Sleep Hygiene

Better sleep habits may reduce sleep bruxism. Your Austin dentist may recommend a sleep study if other sleep problems are suspected.

Regular Dental Checkups

Routine exams allow your Austin dentist to monitor wear patterns and intervene early before damage progresses. So, schedule twice-yearly visits with Dr. Ragsdale to keep problems at bay.

Learn More About Bruxism Treatment with Your Austin Dentist Today!

So, does teeth grinding really destroy your teeth? Yes, chronic bruxism can lead to enamel loss, cracks, sensitivity, and structural damage over time. The good news is that early detection and protective strategies can significantly reduce your risk. 

If you suspect grinding, click here to request an evaluation with your Austin dentist, or call Austin Laser Dentist at (512) 346-4690 to protect your smile and maintain long-term oral health.

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How to Avoid TMJ Pain During the Holidays

The holiday season is here, full of joy, laughter, and – for some – stress. If you experience TMJ pain, the extra excitement and hustle of the season can make things worse. TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, can cause discomfort in your jaw, headaches, and even ear pain. Luckily, with some simple tips (and maybe a little help from restorative dentistry), you can enjoy the season without dreading TMJ during the holidays.

Is jaw pain making you feel like the Grinch? Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist can help. Call (512) 346-4690 to explore simple TMJ treatments with our general dentist in Austin, TX.

What Is TMJ, and Why Does It Flare Up During the Holidays?

TMJ affects the hinge joint where the skull and lower jaw meet. The joint in this area works hard when you chew, talk, or even yawn. So, it’s no wonder that around 12% of the population experiences this condition.

Stress, poor posture, and teeth grinding – all common during the holiday rush – can lead to TMJ pain. Add in chewy holiday treats, late-night shopping, and packed schedules, and it’s no wonder TMJ during the holidays can feel worse.

Keep Your Jaw Happy: Tips to Avoid TMJ Pain

Our Austin dentist has some helpful tips to avoid TMJ pain during the holidays, including:

1. Stay Stress-Free (or Try to Be!)

Stress is a big trigger for TMJ pain. With gifts to buy, meals to prepare, and events to attend, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Practice mindfulness, take deep breaths, or schedule time to relax with a cozy holiday movie. 

2. Watch What You Eat

Holiday food is delicious, but some treats can be tough on the jaw joint. Avoid super chewy or hard foods like caramel, beef jerky, and nuts. Instead, go for soft, easy-to-chew options like mashed potatoes, soups, or desserts like pudding. Your TMJ will thank you for skipping the jaw workout!

3. Don’t Forget to Stretch

Your jaw needs a break, too. Try gentle jaw exercises to loosen tension. Open and close your mouth slowly or move your jaw carefully from side to side. These stretches can ease TMJ during the holidays and keep your jaw flexible.

4. Use Hot or Cold Packs

If your jaw feels sore, use a warm towel or a cold pack to soothe the area. Warmth can relax tight muscles, while cold can reduce swelling. Find what works best for you and keep it handy – just in case.

5. Take Breaks from Chewing

Between holiday snacks and meals, give your jaw a rest. Chewing gum or snacking constantly can overwork your TMJ. Stick to regular meals and skip unnecessary chewing to avoid extra strain.

When to See a Dentist in Austin, TX

If TMJ pain is ruining your holiday cheer, it might be time to visit our dentist in Austin, TX. Dr. Ragsdale can recommend treatments like night guards or restorative dentistry to help relieve your symptoms. Our team will happily guide you toward long-term solutions so TMJ during the holidays becomes a thing of the past.

Don’t Let TMJ Steal Your Holiday Joy – Visit Austin Laser Dentist Today!

TMJ pain doesn’t have to ruin the season. By managing stress, being mindful of your food choices, and listening to your body, you can enjoy everything the holidays have to offer. If you need extra help, Dr. Ragsdale is just a call or click away. Reach Austin Laser Dentist online, or call our front desk at (512) 346-4690 for scheduling!

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“Can TMJ cause headaches?” And Other FAQs

man with headache because of TMJ disorder

If you suffer from frequent headaches, there could be many causes, but it’s very possible that your dental health and jaw function are behind your symptoms. If you know much about TMJ disorder, you know that it is caused by inflammation or dysfunction in your jaw joints. But can TMJ cause headaches? Absolutely! 

At Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale wants her patients to enjoy optimal oral and physical health. She offers a variety of treatments for TMJ disorder and will carefully select the right one for your needs. Dr. Ragsdale is also a proponent of patient education and will take all the time you need to answer your TMJ questions. 

To learn more about TMJ disorder, schedule an appointment at Austin Laser Dentist today.

Can TMJ cause headaches? 

If you have pain and inflammation in your jaw joints, the discomfort can quickly move to your head, neck, and shoulders. TMJ headaches often feel dull and achy. They may be worse in the morning, especially if you grind your teeth at night. You may experience pain on one or both sides of your head.

In addition to headaches, other TMJ disorder symptoms can include:

  • Jaw pain
  • Jaw stiffness and/or difficulty opening and closing your mouth
  • Ringing in your ears
  • A clicking noise when you open or close your mouth
  • Changes in your bite

How common is TMJ disorder?

TMJ disorder is quite common, affecting between 5% and 12% of the population. Women are two times more likely to suffer from the condition as men, especially if they are taking estrogen or oral contraceptives. TMJ dysfunction is very common among younger patients. 

Can TMJD go away on its own?

Yes, fortunately, many cases of TMJ disorder do clear up on their own. This is because the condition is often associated with stress, which can cause jaw tension and teeth grinding. Once a stressful event is over, patients may find themselves naturally more relaxed. However, if your TMJ symptoms last more than a few weeks, you should see a dentist.

Does TMJ disorder have any long term risks?

Left untreated, TMJ disorder can lead to chronic pain, which can greatly affect your mental health and overall quality of life. You could also suffer from sleep disruptions and even sleep disorders, which themselves have health risks, such as an increased risk for heart attack and stroke. Plus, if your TMJD is caused by bruxism, the constant grinding and clenching could cause significant structural damage to your teeth.

What are my treatment options?

Treatment for your TMJ disorder will depend on its underlying cause and your specific symptoms. Dr. Ragsdale will always begin with the most conservative options, which could include anti-inflammatory medications, jaw exercises, and simple lifestyle changes. 

In many cases, Dr. Ragsdale will provide a custom mouthguard. The device will stop unconscious teeth grinding at night. At the same time, it will reposition your jaw while you are sleeping to alleviate pressure on your TMJs.

Contact Austin Laser Dentist Today

Still have questions about TMJ disorder or looking to book an appointment?

Contact Austin Laser Dentist online or call us at (512) 346-4690.

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Bruxism Treatments Stop Teeth Grinding and Gnashing

While estimates vary by source, the Sleep Foundation estimates that approximately 15% of children and adolescents, 8% of middle-age persons, and 3% of seniors grind their teeth. This usually subconscious habit, called bruxism, can have significant negative effects on oral health. 

In this article, we at Dr. Helen Ragsdale’s dental office in Austin, TX, will explain:

  • The harm bruxism causes
  • Why people brux
  • How to stop the habit
  • Who can help you

Do you brux? Most often, a parent or spouse overhears a loved one grinding their teeth during the night. In some cases, a dentist notices worn, damaged molars during a checkup and identifies the patient as a bruxer. Treating the condition is imperative to maintaining strong, healthy teeth and gums.

The Harm Bruxism Causes

The human mouth exerts approximately 250 pounds of pressure when biting or clenching. And though tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, intense pressure routinely exerted on teeth will cause them to chip, crack, become sensitive. As you can imagine, dental work can also incur damage.

Patients may wake in the morning with a sore jaw, and ultimately they may develop temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ/TMD. Additionally, gingivitis or periodontitis may worsen as soft tissues are affected by recurring clenching and grinding.

Obstructive sleep apnea is connected to bruxism as well, though researchers are still studying the cause of the association.

And not only the bruxer is at risk. Studies show that roommates who hear someone bruxing during the night can lose sleep, which causes serious quality of life issues like daytime drowsiness, inability to focus, accidents, and other problems. 

Why People Clench and Grind Their Teeth

Stress and anxiety can cause bruxism, both during the nighttime and the daytime. The condition may also be genetic; half of bruxers have a relative who also clenches and grinds their teeth. While researchers are still connecting the dots, people who consume tobacco, alcohol, caffeine, and those who snore have a higher incidence of bruxism.

How to Stop Bruxing

To preserve your oral health, comfortable jaw function, and the sleep quality of both you and your roommates, bruxism must be treated. The most common and effective option is also non-invasive. A sleep guard, which is an oral appliance worn during sleep, keeps bottom teeth from contacting top teeth, thus eliminating any risk of clenching and grinding.

Stress reduction activities like yoga, meditation, listening to soothing music, and taking a warm bath may quell anxiety and thus reduce the risk of bruxing. Also, avoid repetitive chewing, such gum chewing and nibbling on pen caps. These activities place additional stress on jaw muscles.

One more consideration: if your bite is imbalanced, which we call malocclusion, you may also need orthodontic braces or restoration of molars to establish proper occlusion and reduce stress on your jaws.

Dr. Ragsdale Can Help You

Don’t let bruxism wreak havoc on your health. If you have been told or suspect that you clench and grind your teeth, call Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist today to reserve your consultation. Contact us online or call 512-346-4690 today!

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What is bruxism?

woman laying in white bed asleep and grinding her teeth

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a condition that involves the grinding, clenching, or gnashing of teeth together. Awake bruxism is when a person clenches their teeth during waking hours while sleep bruxism is when teeth are gnashed while a person is sleeping.

Mild cases of bruxism may require little treatment, if any. More severe cases, however, can lead to tooth damage, jaw disorders, as well other problems.

Because sleep bruxism is hard to detect until complications arise, the warning signs should be known in order for a patient to seek relevant dental care. Dr. Helen Ragsdale of Austin Laser Dentist is prepared  to help a patient with diagnosis if they exhibit symptoms of bruxism.

Symptoms

Symptoms of bruxism can include:

  • Teeth grinding that is loud enough to wake others
  • Chipped, fractured, or damaged teeth
  • Tooth enamel that is worn away, exposing underlying dentin
  • Tight jaw muscles or a locked jaw that cannot open
  • Popping or clicking in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
  • Headaches
  • Damage to the inside of the cheek
  • Headaches

Because other conditions share many of the same symptoms with bruxism it is important to see a dental professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Common Causes of Bruxism

It is believed teeth grinding is caused by a combination of physical, psychological and genetic factors. Some of these factors include:

  • Stress. Increased stress levels in the body can lead to teeth gnashing and grinding.
  • Personality type. Individuals with nervous tension, overly aggressive or competitive behavior can be at increased risk for bruxism.
  • Genetics. Incidents of bruxism increase in families that have a history of the condition.
  • Medications. Bruxism has been known to be a common side effect of some medications such as antidepressants.
  • Other substances. Tobacco, caffeine, alcohol, and recreational drugs can increase the risk of bruxism.

Diagnosing Bruxism

During regular checkups a dental provider will examine teeth for signs of bruxism. Those signs include chipped teeth or teeth with flattened tips. If teeth grinding is suspected a dental provider will re-examine those symptoms in subsequent checkups to determine whether the condition is progressing and whether a treatment regimen is needed.

Treatment for Bruxism

In most cases bruxism can be successfully treated. The line of treatment will depend on a patient’s age, overall health and medical history, and preferences. 

Dental Treatment

If a patient is diagnosed with bruxism, the dental professional will suggest ways to preserve his dental health.

One common treatment for bruxism is a splint or mouth guard. These are designed to keep teeth separated in order to avoid the damage caused by bruxism. They can be constructed of hard materials (such as acrylic) or soft materials, and can fit over upper or lower teeth. 

In cases where damage to teeth has progressed, such as when tooth damage has led to increased sensitivity or the inability to chew properly, a dental professional may need to reshape the surfaces of a patient’s teeth or use crowns to repair the damage.

Behavioral Changes 

Other treatments for bruxism can include behavioral changes. The patient may be taught how to rest their tongue, teeth, and lips properly, for example.

Some methods of mediation used to promote relaxation can help. If the bruxism is induced by anxiety, talking to a therapist or a counselor may be recommended.

Biofeedback can also be used to help treat bruxism. Electronic instruments can be used to alert a patient of the amount of muscle activity in the mouth and jaw. The instrument signals the patient when there is too much activity so the behavior can be altered.

Bruxism Relief in Austin, TX

Whatever the cause, Dr. Ragsdale and her team can guide you through the diagnosis process and help you find a treatment plan that is best for you. Call (512) 346-4690 or use our contact page to conveniently schedule an appointment today.