You may have heard the word “bruxism” before, but if you haven’t, bruxism is the clinical term for teeth grinding, more specifically, the involuntary clenching, grinding, and gnashing of your teeth, usually during sleep. Because it mainly occurs when we’re asleep, we don’t always realize it’s happening.
Patients ask all the time, “How can I keep my teeth forever?” The answer is always the same: brush twice a day, floss once a day, and visit your dentist every 6 months like clockwork. It seems too simple, but diligent, consistent preventative care is the best way to protect your teeth from decay and keep them healthy for your entire life.
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time to assess your risk and get screened. Although oral cancer affects thousands of people in the US every year, a diagnosis does not have to ruin your life. Your dentist is a powerful ally who can help you reduce your risk and detect cancer early, when treatment is most effective.
