3. Flattened, Chipped, or Loose Teeth: The Visible Evidence
One of the more undeniable signs of bruxism is the evident damage it can cause to your pearly whites. Over time, the consistent grinding and clenching can lead to a noticeable flattening of the teeth. This isn’t just an aesthetic concern, as this kind of wear can expose deeper layers of your tooth, leading to heightened sensitivity or even pain.
Beyond just the flattening, the sheer force exerted during teeth grinding can also result in chipping. These tiny chips might not be immediately noticeable, but with time and continued grinding, they can grow in size, compromising the tooth’s structural integrity.
Moreover, the force of grinding doesn’t stop at chipping. It can also lead to teeth becoming loose. A loose tooth, especially in adults where the teeth have long since settled into their permanent positions, is a clear red flag. This can lead to other dental complications if not addressed promptly.
The silver lining? These physical changes mean that dentists can often identify bruxism during routine check-ups. Regular dental visits thus become the first line of defense against the more severe outcomes of this condition. (3)
