We all know that bacteria cause cavities, but can you also get cavities by simply grinding your teeth? Teeth grinding is a disorder that can lead to several oral issues. So, even though germs are the direct cause of tooth decay, teeth-grinding with unrelenting force can increase the likelihood of dental decay.
What is Teeth Grinding?
Teeth grinding or bruxism is an involuntary behavior of clenching your teeth, which can happen when you’re asleep or awake. Stress, anxiety, sleep issues, certain drugs, and lifestyle choices like drinking alcohol or caffeine are all contributing causes. Bruxism can result in serious dental problems such as chipped teeth, worn enamel, migraines, and jaw discomfort.
How Does Teeth Grinding Contribute to the Development of Cavities?
Teeth grinding doesn’t directly cause cavities. However, it may contribute to the development of dental cavities. How? When you grind your teeth while you sleep, nothing protects their surface from the force of your jaw. The force used in teeth grinding gradually erodes the enamel, making it thin or even breakable.
Bruxism gives germs direct access to the interior layers of the tooth by eroding the enamel and causing chips or microfractures. These germs are more difficult to get rid of once they’re inside, which causes cavities and a slow deterioration of tooth structure. This is the main way that grinding your teeth makes you more vulnerable to tooth decay.
Other Risks of Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding or chronic bruxism presents serious threats to your oral health and general wellbeing. Serious problems may arise from the constant pressure placed on the jaw joint and teeth, including:
Dental Cracks
One of the main causes of broken teeth is teeth grinding. The constant pressure erodes the structure of teeth, especially molars, making them more prone to fractures.
TMJ
Teeth grinding and clenching are commonly linked to common symptoms of TMJ problems, such as discomfort, clicking or popping noises, and jaw locking.
Headaches and Pain in the Musculoskeletal System
Headaches can be caused by the extra muscular tension that bruxism causes. Additionally, a person may experience pain in a number of places, such as the jaw, cheeks, ears, or neck; sensitive and painful teeth; or sore or irritated gums. Teeth grinding causes prolonged muscular stress, which directly contributes to this pervasive pain.
Gum Disease
Too much strain on teeth can cause them to loosen, which can lead to periodontal pockets where germs thrive. Gum disease or gum recession may result from this increased bacterial activity.
Ending Note!
We hope that this blog has helped you understand the negative effects of teeth grinding. It may not directly cause cavities, but it can contribute to its development. So, if you have a disorder of grinding your teeth at night, you must visit your dentist to talk about the possible treatment.
If you require further assistance, consult our expert dentist at Divine Dental Studio. Call us at (209) 207-7777 to book your appointment.