Grinding and the damage It can do

April 20, 2012
A close up of a man making a funny face with his mouth open.

Several patients have come in with painful TMJ's ( Jaw Joints) and several painful teeth. The usual culprit is added stress in their lives and they are grinding their teeth. If one tooth hurts it usually is from decay or gum disease that is located right at that site. If several teeth all of a sudden start to hurt it usually is from grinding ( bruxism) or clenching.


We can treat this condition with a nightguard which is like the guard sports players wear, but lighter, thinner and less bulky. It will protect the teeth from damage done while sleeping or from a daytime habit that the patient is unaware of. It is always smart to see a dentist regularly before pain occurs, but if pain does start do not ignore it. It will usually get worse and more complex to fix.

Subscribe to Dr. Annie's newsletter

Latest Articles

By Dr. Annie Mazure-Schmidt July 7, 2026
If you've ever wished your teeth were a little straighter but dreaded the idea of braces, you're not alone. For millions of adults and teens, clear aligners have changed the conversation entirely by offering a discreet, comfortable, and surprisingly effective path to a better-aligned smile. Here's what you need to know.
By Dr. Annie Mazure-Schmidt July 7, 2026
It's one of the most common questions new parents ask at our office, Amaze Dental in Kirkland, WA and one of the most important. The answer might surprise you: earlier than most people think.
By Dr. Annie Mazure-Schmidt July 7, 2026
Not every smile concern requires a major procedure. If you've been living with a chipped tooth, a small crack, or a gap you've always wanted to close, cosmetic bonding might be the solution and you may be surprised by how simple the process is.
Show more articles

Share this article