Teeth Grinding Treatment
Teeth grinding, often referred to as bruxism, is a condition that affects the overall health of the mouth and jaw. Grinding typically occurs at night when people aren’t even aware of what they’re doing.
You may also grind your teeth during the day because of anxiety or stress. Regardless of when you grind your teeth, consistent bruxism can lead to tooth fracture and TMJ-related pain, as well as headaches and mouth soreness.
At Lori Logan, DDS Family & Cosmetic Dentistry we can help minimize teeth grinding and relieve your TMJ-related pain.
What Causes Teeth Grinding?
Bruxism can occur for a variety of different situations. Treatment is available for most causes of bruxism and can both help to prevent grinding, as well as put a stop to damage that has already been done. Some common causes of bruxism include:
- Anxiety and stress
- Uneven bite
- Missing teeth
- Sleep apnea
In some cases, there is no real cause of bruxism other than the act itself. Most commonly, patients grind their teeth at night and are unaware of what they’re doing until they wake up with a sore jaw and a throbbing headache.
Who Is a Candidate for Teeth Grinding Treatment?
During a dental exam, our Cypress dentist can usually spot signs of bruxism, especially if it’s been going on for a while. You may be a good candidate for treatment if you suspect or know that you grind your teeth.
If you grind your teeth at night, some tell-tale signs to look for include morning-specific headaches and TMJ pain and discomfort, as well as flat-looking teeth. Patients who grind their teeth are good candidates for treatment because stopping the behavior can prevent related oral problems from getting worse.
What’s Does Teeth Grinding Treatment Involve?
If sleep apnea is the cause of your nighttime grinding, there are many sleep apnea treatments available. These treatments include wearing a device that opens up the airway at night, making it easier to breathe and preventing grinding. If your grinding is due to missing teeth or an uneven bite, orthodontic treatment, as well as bridgework or implants, can be helpful.
Most often, bruxism is treated with a simple oral device that is worn at night. The device is made specifically for your mouth and should be worn each night. It will help to provide cushioning between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from coming into contact.
Schedule an Appointment to Learn More
If you suspect you have a teeth grinding habit and would like to learn about your treatment options, please call our Cypress dentist, Dr. Lori Logan. She will evaluate your needs and work with you to find a solution to resolve your pain and minimize the effects of teeth grinding on your oral health.
