Waking up with a cracked tooth isn’t uncommon, even if you keep up with your dental hygiene. If it happens to you, it doesn’t mean you’re not taking care of your teeth, but rather that you may have a condition common to many people. Our team at Smile Boutique Dental in MA is here to explain this common problem, what to do about it, and how to avoid it and prevent a cracked tooth.
Are you dealing with a cracked tooth in MA? Here’s a look at the likely cause and what to do about it.
Why did my tooth crack?
Your tooth may have cracked for several reasons. Sometimes, biting down on something hard, such as ice, hard candy, or nuts, can cause cracks. In addition, fillings can also be the cause if they were created to be too large for the area they are in. However, a condition called bruxism can also cause a cracked tooth.
What is bruxism?
Bruxism is a dental condition where you clench, gnash, or grind your teeth to the point that they wear down and crack. Most of the time, bruxism happens when you are unaware of it, such as while you are asleep.
What causes bruxism?
Bruxism has a few common causes. Factors that can cause bruxism to happen, including:
- Experiencing high stress
- Overconsuming caffeine
- Smoking or excessive drinking
- Sleep apnea
- Behavioral conditions such as ADHD
Bruxism can also occur during the day. High stress situations can cause you to grind your teeth, even if you don’t realize you’re doing it.
Tips for Preventing Bruxism
Various methods can help relieve bruxism, and you should choose the one that works best for you. If you know that your bruxism is caused by stress, try calming activities to help with your stress. These activities can include listening to music, going for a walk, meditation, or deep breathing. On the other hand, if your bruxism is caused by sleep apnea or ADHD, a mouthguard may be the best solution.
Mouthguards for Bruxism
Using a mouthguard while you sleep is one of the best ways to prevent tooth cracking from bruxism. They protect the wearer from teeth grinding and the pain that can come with it. While there are one-size-fits-all mouthguards, our team at Smile Boutique can help you get the right fit for your teeth.
Cracked Tooth in MA? Call Smile Boutique!
At Smile Boutique, we’ll find the best options for your teeth. Our skilled team provides the most up-to-date dental care in MA, including fixing a cracked tooth.