Grinding or clenching teeth during sleep, known as sleep bruxism, can also predispose one to cracked teeth, says Dr Valerie Tey, a dental specialist in prosthodontics at T32 Dental Group. A prosthodontist restores and maintains oral function, comfort, and appearance for patients with missing or damaged teeth.
Research shows that sleep bruxism is strongly associated with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), a sleep disorder where one stops breathing repeatedly because of a complete or partial blockage in the airway. It is estimated to affect one in three Singaporeans. Several studies have shown that effective treatment in individuals with OSA tends to lead to a reduction in sleep bruxism, Dr Tey adds.
At NDCS, cracked teeth tend to occur in patients aged 30 to 60, but Smileworks’ Dr Leung says she is now seeing patients in their 20s.
She attributes this to the increased psychological stress among those in their 20s to 40s, especially during the pandemic. This has been linked to patterns of unconscious muscle contraction such as bruxism. Delays in routine dental care during the Covid-19 years may also have allowed minor defects to progress to cracks that cause pain.
Read full article: https://www.straitstimes.com/life/cracked-teeth-how-hard-foods-and-teeth-grinding-can-take-a-toll-on-your-smile