Bruxism Treatment
If you are someone who grinds their teeth, come see our dentists at Oakwood Dental, Dr. Brandt Jones and Dr. Michael Zendig. We will be able to create an oral appliance that helps protect your teeth while you sleep at night. We invite you to call us at 303-688-3860 to schedule your consultation, where you can learn more about our bruxism treatments in Castle Rock, Colorado.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the habit of grinding, gnashing or clenching your teeth. It can happen while you are awake, often without noticing it during stress or concentration, or while you sleep. Many people who grind at night have no idea they do it until a dentist spots the wear or a partner hears it.
Signs You May Be Grinding Your Teeth
- Teeth that look flattened, chipped, cracked or worn down
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- A sore, tired or tight jaw, especially in the morning
- Dull headaches that start near the temples
- Clicking or discomfort in the jaw joint
- A partner hearing grinding sounds at night
- Marks on the inside of your cheeks or the sides of your tongue
Common Contributing Factors
Bruxism often has more than one cause. Stress and anxiety, certain sleep disorders, an uneven bite, some medications, and caffeine, alcohol or tobacco use can all play a part. Because nighttime grinding is sometimes connected to sleep-disordered breathing, we may ask about your sleep. Learn more about sleep apnea treatment at Oakwood Dental.
Why Treat It?
Ongoing grinding can wear away enamel, crack teeth, damage fillings and crowns, and strain the muscles and joints of the jaw. Treating bruxism early helps protect your teeth and dental work.
How We Treat Bruxism
Custom oral appliance (night guard)
Our dentists can create an oral appliance made from impressions of your teeth that you wear while you sleep. It places a protective layer between your upper and lower teeth so they are not grinding directly against each other. A custom guard is made to fit your bite, unlike one-size-fits-all guards from the store.
Repairing existing damage
If grinding has already chipped or worn teeth, we will talk with you about options to restore them once the grinding is under control.
Everyday habits that help
- Notice daytime clenching and relax your jaw: lips together, teeth apart
- Limit caffeine and alcohol, especially later in the day
- Build a calming bedtime routine to help manage stress
- Avoid chewing on pens, ice or other hard objects
Bruxism and TMJ Problems
Clenching and grinding put extra load on the jaw muscles and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). If you also have jaw pain, clicking or trouble opening your mouth, see our page on TMJ treatment in Castle Rock.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?
Morning jaw soreness, headaches and worn teeth are common clues. At your exam, our dentists can look for signs of wear and talk with you about your symptoms.
Will a night guard stop me from grinding?
A night guard is designed to protect your teeth and dental work from the forces of grinding. Managing contributing factors such as stress and sleep habits also helps.
How do I care for my night guard?
Rinse and brush it gently after each use, let it dry, and store it in its case. Bring it to your dental visits so we can check the fit.
Schedule a Bruxism Consultation in Castle Rock
Call Oakwood Dental at 303-688-3860 or request an appointment online.