What Is Bruxism?

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Bruxism is a condition that causes a person to grind their teeth, either unconsciously during the day or while they sleep. Grinding your teeth can do damage to your tooth enamel. Many people who grind their teeth are unaware that they’re doing it because, most of the time, it happens at night. Your dentist in Grand Junction, CO, can help you determine if you grind your teeth

How Can You Tell If You Have Bruxism?

Most people have no way of knowing if they grind their teeth at night. However, you may notice some symptoms and not realize that these problems are occurring because you have bruxism. Some examples of bruxism symptoms include:

  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Worn tooth enamel
  • Cracked or broken teeth
  • Headache in the morning when you wake up

If you sleep with a partner, they may notice you grinding your teeth at night. However, the best way to find out if you have bruxism is to go to the dentist. Your dentist can observe the symptoms of bruxism and will be able to tell you if you have a problem.

What Should You Do If You Have Bruxism?

If you have bruxism, it’s really important to protect your teeth at night. Wearing a nightguard can be helpful. The best nightguards are custom-made. Your dentist will be able to tell you how you can get a custom-made nightguard to protect your teeth.

Do you think you might have bruxism? Sounds like you need an appointment with the dentist. Call your dentist at Western Slope Dental Center for a dental examination in Grand Junction, CO. During your appointment, we’ll look for the signs of bruxism and will let you know the next steps.

When Is It Time to See the Dentist?  

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When was the last time you saw the dentist? If you can’t remember, it may have been too long. Knowing when to see the dentist can help you avoid unfortunate conditions like gum disease, tooth infection and other dental problems.

As your dentist in Grand Junction, CO, the professionals at Western Slope Dental Center are committed to ensuring that you have clean, healthy teeth. Help us help you! Come see the dentist when it’s time. Here’s what you need to know about how often you should see the dentist.

See the Dentist Twice Per Year

You should be seeing the dentist every six months for a dental cleaning in Grand Junction, CO. Many dental insurance companies will cover two annual teeth cleanings, to ensure that your teeth stay healthy. If you need to come to the dentist more frequently, or if you only need to see the dentist once per year, your dentist will let you know.

When You’re Noticing Signs of a Problem

Know the signs of a problem and see the dentist when you’ve identified potential symptoms. Some things to look for include:

  • Pain and swelling in the area around your tooth
  • Sudden tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
  • Red, puffy, swollen gums
  • Bad breath that won’t go away, even after brushing your teeth
  • Bad taste in your mouth that won’t go away after brushing your teeth
  • Stains or discolorations on your teeth
  • Gum recession

When It’s Urgent

Do you know when it’s a dental emergency? See your dentist if you’re having an urgent problem such as:

  • Loss of a permanent tooth
  • Permanent teeth are loose
  • Severe pain around a tooth
  • Your tooth has become cracked or chipped

If you’re not sure whether it’s a dental emergency, or if you just need to make an appointment, call your dentist at Western Slope Dental Center.