Grinding or clenching your teeth, also known as bruxism, can have a serious impact on your dental health. While many people are unaware they grind their teeth during sleep or periods of stress, the habit can gradually wear down tooth enamel, cause cracks, and even lead to chipped or broken teeth.

At Ferry Dental Centre, we often see patients who are surprised to learn that their dental problems are caused by this condition.

Why Bruxism Damages Teeth

Teeth are built to withstand pressure from chewing, but persistent grinding places far greater force on them than normal. Over time, this constant friction can:

• Chip or break teeth.
• Flatten or shorten tooth surfaces.
• Increase sensitivity due to worn enamel.
• Lead to jaw strain and pain in the gums and jaw.

Once enamel is lost, it cannot grow back, making teeth more vulnerable to further damage.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

Because bruxism often happens at night, many patients don’t notice it until signs appear. Symptoms include:

• Frequent headaches on waking.
• Tightness in the jaw or soreness in the face.
• Cracks or small fractures in teeth.
• A partner hearing grinding noises while you sleep.

If you have these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist in Southampton for an assessment.

Preventing Damage Through Early Detection

The good news is that much of the treatment needed for chipped and broken teeth can be avoided with regular dental check-ups. At Ferry Dental Centre, routine examinations allow us to spot the earliest signs of bruxism, such as minor wear patterns on teeth, before they develop into more serious fractures. With timely intervention, such as fitting a custom splint or recommending splint therapy alongside tailored lifestyle advice, we can protect your teeth and reduce long-term damage.

Missing dental appointments often means bruxism is only discovered once a tooth has already chipped or broken. Early action can save patients from more complex and costly procedures later on.

Treatment Options

When damage has already occurred, treatment may involve:

• Dental bonding or crowns to restore strength.
• Splint therapy to prevent further wear and protect teeth.
• Advice on stress management techniques to reduce grinding habits.

We aim to provide affordable dental care so patients can access the right solutions without delay.

Why Choose Ferry Dental Centre

Our experienced team combines advanced dental knowledge with a caring approach. Whether you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, unexplained cracks, or ongoing pain in your gums and jaw, our team at Ferry Dental Centre can help. Regular appointments with a trusted dentist in Southampton give you the best chance to catch bruxism early, avoid chipped and broken teeth, and keep your smile healthy.

Bruxism may seem harmless at first, but it’s one of the leading causes of chipped and broken teeth. With early detection through routine dental examinations, much of the damage can be prevented. Protecting your teeth today means fewer complex treatments tomorrow—something we at Ferry Dental Centre are dedicated to helping you achieve.