by GERALD V. CERDAN, DMD
Biting and chewing your food. It’s something we do every day and without thinking. That’s why when most people have biting issues— where they bite the inside tissue of their mouth— they usually don’t think beyond the few minutes of pain and discomfort it causes. However, frequent biting (as well as grinding and clenching) can be signs of more serious dental dangers! Here’s a rundown of cautions to make sure you are aware of.
Cautions for Frequent Biting, Grinding, or Clenching
- You could have a misaligned bite. This condition, also known as malocclusion, is one cause for an increased amount of lip, cheek, and tongue-biting. When your teeth don’t align properly it can cause more trouble than pleasure while eating, but the good news is, it can be fixed.
- Teeth grinding (or bruxism) or clenching of your jaw can also cause serious problems. When you grind your teeth or clench your jaw (and typically this happens in your sleep), teeth can be damaged or, worse, you can suffer from Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). The temporomandibular joint is basically what connects your jaw to your skull. You need it, and TMD is the culprit for severe pain and discomfort in your jaw. It could also, in severe cases, cause swelling in your face or for your jaw to get stuck or locked in an open- or closed-mouth position.
Keeping these cautions in mind, don’t let frequent biting, grinding, or clenching go for too long without seeking help from a dentist. At our office, we specialize in the latest dental practices, technology, and services, and our team is committed to providing the best dental care for our patients. Call us today to schedule your next checkup: 863-293-1108.
This column is sponsored by Winter Haven Family & Cosmetic Dentistry and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFHN or of its advertisers.
BIO: Dr. Gerald V. Cerdan has been practicing dentistry in Winter Haven since 2007. He is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Florida Dental Association, the American Dental Association, the Spear Education, and the Polk County Dental Association. The team at Winter Haven Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is committed to providing high-quality care for all their patients, and Dr. Cerdan is skilled in using cutting-edge technologies to give patients beautiful smiles they can be proud of. To schedule an appointment, visit WinterHavenFamilyDentistry.com or call 863-293-1108.