For the first time in your life you get embarrassed to be at the Dentist. An awkward event occurs when a funny song appears coming from the mp3 player. What are you to do? Play it off or should you try to make an excuse for its mishap.

Drinking water is the cheapest way to avoid cavities and other dental problems. Water doesn’t have any sugar like juice or sodas that may build up on your gums or teeth. Therefore, drink water the majority of the time and avoid soda on a regular basis.

A dentist appointment doesn’t have to take all the energy out of you. A dentist appointment is only once a year if you make your regularly yearly checkup. Don’t think of it as a horrible appointment, but as a field trip to the dentist. Lighten up.

A lot of people hate going to the dentist, but you have to wonder if it’s not worth going and ending up with black teeth such as the image shown above. We’re not saying that you’ll have black teeth by not going, but the dentist can prevent this from occurring. Don’t be scared and go to the dentist.

Before going to the dentist make sure you’re brushing your teeth and flossing your teeth on a regular basis. The most common circumstance that occurs is people tend to floss the week before going to the dentist and end up going to the dentist with bleeding gums from brushing their teeth too hard. The other most common situation is people don’t floss or brush their teeth at all and end up having the dentist do all the work. Sadly, this isn’t usually the case as people end up with cavities for not brushing their teeth. Of these various situations, which do you fall into?
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The movement usually involves moving the central incisors and canines laterally against one another.  It can involve clenching and grinding of the molars as well.

At first this may go unnoticed but accelerated wear begins to show in the loss of enamel.  Edges begin to flatten and as this habit would continue unchecked for year’s teeth may be worn to stubs.

Children as young as 5 or 6 may grind their teeth, this makes a disturbing noise.  This habit usually goes away as their permanent teeth erupt into occlusion.  It does not mean they will grind their teeth as adults.

Bruxism will have adverse effects so it is in one’s best interest to stop.  It is easier said than done.  Some strategies are employed to help learn new habits to combat bruxism.  Try this tongue exercise, when you feel yourself clenching place your tongue against the roof of your mouth just behind the incisors and make the sound like “nnn.”  This will prevent clenching.

Stress is a factor that contributes to bruxism.  Try to find ways to reduce your stress or tension.

Eliminating any nicotine or caffeine a few hours before you rest may reduce bruxism during the night, while sleeping.  Try a glass of herbal tea instead.  If your partner hears you grinding your teeth at night have them wake you.  Get up straighten out your pajamas and your covers.  Maybe have a glass of milk and go back to bed.  Try to learn a new habit.

Your dentist can make Nightguards or occlusal splints.  A hard acrylic night guard can be comfortable and 95% of the people get used to them.  It is a measure of protection and not a cure.  It can provide relief from all the soreness that can be associated with bruxism.

Bruxism is disruptive to your sleep, can involve sore muscles, clicking or popping sounds when chewing, difficulty opening your mouth and even damage to the TMJ.  You should see your dentist for an evaluation.