Author Archives: Phuong Ngo

Is work or school stressing you out? You may be taking it out on your teeth through a condition called bruxism. Bruxism is characterized by the grinding of the teeth and is typically accompanied by the clenching of the jaw. Researchers classify bruxism as a habitual behavior as well as a sleep disorder. Untreated bruxism can lead to other health problems, damage to the teeth and gums, and even temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).

What causes bruxism?

Bruxism can have numerous causes, such as bite problems, stress, medical conditions, or certain medications.

What are signs of bruxism?

Most people with bruxism are not aware of the condition, and only approximately 5% develop symptoms (such as jaw pain and headaches) that require treatment. In many cases, a sleeping partner or parent will notice the bruxism before the person experiencing the problem is even aware of it. The noise resulting from bruxism can be quite loud. Bruxism can result in abnormal wear patterns on the top surfaces of teeth, unusually sensitive teeth, notching of the teeth at the gum lines, as well as severe damage to the teeth, including fractures. Bruxism also is a significant cause of tooth loss, gum recession, and loosening of the teeth.

What are the symptoms of bruxism?

The symptoms of bruxism vary and can include anxiety, stress, and tension; depression; earache; eating disorders; headache; insomnia; and a sore or painful jaw. If left untreated, bruxism eventually shortens and blunts the teeth being ground and can lead to facial muscle pain and TMD. In severe chronic cases, it can lead to arthritis of the temporomandibular joints.

How is bruxism diagnosed?

The patient often becomes aware of the condition during a routine dental examination. Dr. Ngo will be able to recognize the signs of bruxism during a dental exam and may even suggest further analysis of your bruxism, such as recommending an overnight stay at a sleep laboratory.

How is bruxism treated?

There is not always a definitive cure for bruxism, but the signs and symptoms can be reduced or eliminated through dental treatment. Treatments can include mouth guards, bite adjustments, biofeedback devices, and repair of damaged teeth. Do you have questions about bruxism? Talk to Dr. Ngo during your next check-up!

Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland Tx, Richardson Tx, Plano Tx, Murphy Tx, SachseTx, Wylie Tx or surrounding areas we are here to help you with your family, restorative or cosmetic dentistry needs.

What are dental emergencies and how can I help my children avoid them?

Dental emergencies occur when the tooth breaks, cracks, becomes loosened, or is knocked out completely. Emergencies also include crowns coming off teeth or injuries to mouth tissue. You can help your children avoid dental emergencies by taking simple precautions, including making sure they wear mouth guards during sports activities and avoid foods that could crack or break the teeth.

What should I do if my child’s tooth is knocked out?

Your child’s tooth will have the best chance of surviving dental trauma if you see Dr. Ngo within one hour of any emergency. Handle the tooth at the top, not by the root (the pointed part on the bottom). Gently rinse the tooth in water to remove dirt, but do not scrub it. Place the clean tooth in your child’s mouth between the cheek and gum to keep it moist. It is important not to let the tooth dry out, so if your child can’t keep it in their mouth, wrap it in a clean cloth or gauze and immerse it in milk or the child’s own saliva until you get to our office. If your child has a baby tooth knocked out, the tooth should not be replanted. However, your child should visit Focus Dental immediately to ensure no broken pieces of the tooth remain.

What should I do if my child’s tooth is pushed out of position?

Call Focus Dental right away for an emergency appointment. In the meantime, attempt to reposition your child’s tooth to its normal alignment using light finger pressure—but don’t force it.

What should I do if my child’s tooth is chipped or fractured?

There are different types of tooth fractures. Chipped teeth are minor fractures. Moderate fractures involve damage to the enamel, tissue, and/or pulp. A severely fractured tooth usually has been traumatized to the point that it cannot be recovered. If your child fractures a tooth, rinse his or her mouth with warm water and use an ice pack to reduce swelling. Contact Focus Dental immediately. He or she can smooth minor tooth fractures with a sandpaper disc, but some fractures may require restorative procedures. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you to our office.

What should I do if tissue in my child’s mouth is injured?

If your child experiences a tear, cut, puncture wound, or laceration on his or her cheek, lips, or tongue, immediately clean the wound with warm water. Bleeding from a tongue laceration can be reduced by pulling the tongue forward and using gauze to place pressure on the wound. Visit an oral surgeon for emergency care as soon as possible, or go to the emergency room if you cannot see an oral surgeon right away.

Brought to you by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)

Focus Dental is conveniently located on the corner of Jupiter Rd and Campbell Rd in the Campbell Park Shopping Center at 3443 W Campbell Rd, Ste 650 Garland, TX 75044. So if you are in the Garland Tx, Richardson Tx, Plano Tx, Murphy Tx, SachseTx, Wylie Tx or surrounding areas we are here to help you with your family, restorative or cosmetic dentistry needs.