Dr. Gerald Ginsberg discusses teeth grinding

Grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound. Other symptoms of teeth grinding (technically called “bruxism”) include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

People (and children) frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, so taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem. Here are some things you can try to stop grinding:

• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
• Relax right before bedtime with a warm bath or shower
• Help your jaw learn to relax by quitting chewing habits (pens, pencils, gum)
• When clenching or grinding happens during the day, place your tongue between your teeth to serve as a reminder to avoid the habit

If grinding goes untreated, it can lead to chipped teeth, worn enamel, chronic pain, or even TMJ, a painful jaw disorder. If the teeth-grinder in your house can’t stop, schedule an appointment with us at Gerald Ginsberg DDS as soon as possible. Dr. Ginsberg can help determine the cause of the problem and possibly even prescribe a custom mouthpiece to help break the habit.

Ask Dr. Ginsberg: When should my child come in for a check-up?

Many parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Dr. Ginsberg, only to find that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

Ok, you say, what’s so great about age seven? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Ginsberg and our team to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and detrimental to good oral hygiene. So if your child is nearing age 7, give us a call to schedule an appointment.

What helps you relax at Gerald Ginsberg, DDS?

Dr. Gerald Ginsberg understands people aren't always thrilled to see their orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about Gerald Ginsberg D.D.S. that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly staff? Dr. Ginsberg himself?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call! Have a great week!

The advantage of Invisalign Teen™ at Gerald Ginsberg D.D.S.

You already knew that Dr. Ginsberg was a certified Invisalign provider, but did you know he provides Invisalign Teen treatment as well?

For many teens, Invisalign Teen offers a trouble-free, clear alternative to traditional braces; and not only that, but it offers them the chance to have straight teeth without losing self-confidence!

Invisalign Teen works in the same way as Invisalign, but with a few added characteristics tailored specifically to teenagers’ lifestyles. For instance, Invisalign Teen is designed with “compliance indicators” that fade from dark to light during the two week period that particular tray is used and once it has faded teens know to change trays. Each aligner comes with up to six free individual replacement aligners in case the original aligner ends up lost or broken. Another big benefit for the patient!

The treatment period for Invisalign Teen varies from nine to 18 months. If your teen is considering orthodontic treatment, please contact us and we’ll answer any questions you may have about Invisalign Teen.