Why the pandemic has worsened dental pain
We are now 2 years into the COVID-19 pandemic, and it has certainly turned our lives upside down.
We’ve seen everything from having to close the doors of our dental practice, to now working with thousands of cases every day.
Unfortunately we have also seen that some people have not had routine dental treatment during the pandemic. This has meant that in some cases, small problems have worsened and become more complex, expensive and painful.
Many dentists worldwide have also noticed a increase in cracked teeth, jaw pain and broken fillings due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has caused an increase in stress and anxiety, as well as other mental health issues. This can in turn cause in increase in teeth grinding or clenching. Over time, this can cause teeth to permanently become worn down and sensitive. The extra forces and pressure on the teeth caused by grinding and clenching can also exacerbate cracks in teeth and cracks in fillings.
If you are suffering from jaw pain, face pain or pain when you eat or bite on foods, please don’t delay seeing a dentist. Our Claremont dentists would be happy to find out if the cause of your pain is from grinding or clenching due to stress. There are several treatment options which could help your quality of life, and also prevent permanent damage to your teeth.
Here are some treatment options to help with grinding/clenching:
Prevention: avoid chewing hard foods, chewing gum for long or regular periods. Massaging your face muscles or using heat packs can also help with facial muscle pain caused by grinding or clenching.
Anti-inflammatory medications: whilst this won’t prevent the problem, you may need to take some anti-inflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen to help with the pain caused by clenching or grinding
A night guard or splint: these are removable guards usually worn at night. They separate the upper and lower teeth slightly so they do not touch. This helps to prevent your teeth wearing down, and excessive pressure causing cracks in your teeth or fillings.
Muscle relaxant injections: this treatment helps to prevent your muscles from moving as actively, so you are less likely to grind or clench your teeth as much.
Do you have questions about stress-related grinding or clenching? Contact our Claremont dental clinic on 6143 5655 or book online here to discuss your concerns with our friendly, Australian-qualified dentists.
