4 Things You Need To Know About Sprained Tooth Syndrome
Ligaments are the bands of connective tissue that connect one bone to another. You may have heard of the anterior cruciate ligament, which connects the tibia to the femur, but most people don't know that the teeth have ligaments that connect them to the jaw bone. As with any other ligament, it is possible to injure one of your tooth ligaments by overstretching it somehow. This condition, called sprained tooth syndrome, causes chronic inflammation and discomfort, making it essential to schedule an appointment with your dentist to take care of the problem. Before your visit, review these facts about sprained tooth syndrome to ensure you understand what it is and how it can be prevented or treated.
1. Sprained tooth syndrome sometimes occurs when excessive force is applied to the ligament.
In a study to determine the average strength of the human jaw, Dr. G.E. Black used a specialized instrument to test the bite force of 1,000 people. This group of 1,000 people averaged 171 pounds of force in the molar teeth and lower levels of force for the incisors and bicuspids; however, 17 of them developed a force of 275 pounds in their molars. This is a tremendous amount of force, especially considering that each tooth has a rather small surface area. If you bite down on something a little too hard, the resulting pressure could result in a sprain of one of your tooth ligaments.
2. Tooth infections and other dental problems can also lead to sprained tooth syndrome.
If you are concerned about developing sprained tooth syndrome, make sure you visit your dentist at least twice per year, as regular dental cleanings can help you avoid the discomfort of this condition. In some people, sprained tooth syndrome develops as the result of a tooth infection that is not treated quickly. Sprained tooth syndrome may also occur as the result of damage or uneven wear to the teeth. This is why regular check-ups are important. During your dental cleaning, your dentist looks for signs of infection, checks to make sure your teeth are not cracked or otherwise damaged, and examines your mouth for signs of medical conditions such as oral cancer and diabetes. It is during one of these check-ups that your dentist might spot signs of uneven wear, giving you time to treat the problem before it turns into a case of sprained tooth syndrome.
3. Beware nuts, seeds, and other tiny foods.
One common cause of sprained tooth syndrome is trauma caused by biting down on a tiny, hard piece of food. Popcorn kernels are an especially common culprit, as they tend to get stuck in the small spaces between teeth, increasing the risk of trauma to the ligament. If you just can't stay away from popcorn and sunflower seeds, chew carefully and make sure you brush your teeth right after eating to remove any small kernels that could get stuck between your teeth.
4. Sprained tooth syndrome can occur due to sinus problems and other conditions that cause the teeth to move around.
If you've ever had braces, you know it's possible to move the teeth if you apply enough force. Unfortunately, teeth can also move on their own, changing your bite and leaving you at an increased risk of developing sprained tooth syndrome. Sinus problems are a common culprit because they cause postnasal drip, which can cause you to swallow frequently. Every time you swallow, your tongue pushes against your teeth; if you swallow more frequently than usual due to a postnasal drip problem, your teeth may start to move around. This movement increases friction, leaving your tooth ligaments vulnerable to the effects of excessive force.
Regular dental cleanings are important, but they are not always enough to avoid sprained tooth syndrome and other dental conditions. If you have any symptoms of sprained tooth syndrome in between cleanings, contact your dentist right away. Your dentist can identify the problem, help you avoid discomfort, and ensure that the ligament heals properly.
For more information, contact a dental clinic like Family Dentistry Of Woodstock
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