How to Treat Bruxism

Bruxism, or teeth clenching and grinding, is a painful yet common dental problem. Teeth grinding is usually caused by stress or injury to the temporomandibular joints which aid in eating and speaking. This stress leads to TMJ disorders. Teeth clenching and grinding are common symptoms of these bite disorders.

Dr. Albert Caves can treat patients with bruxism in his Columbus, GA dental office. He will thoroughly examine your mouth and jaw, taking x-rays so he can see areas of wear. After this examination, he will determine the best treatment option to stop your teeth from grinding together and also alleviate your pain.

Treat Bruxism in Columbus, Georgia

What Problems Can Bruxism Cause?

Patients who have bruxism may also experience these common symptoms:

  • Headaches
  • Migraines
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Jaw pain
  • Tooth wear
  • Broken teeth

Contact our dental office if you have noticed any of these symptoms. Patients with crooked teeth or a misaligned bite are more prone to developing bruxism. We will thoroughly examine your smile to determine if bruxism or TMJ disorders are a risk factor for you.

Treatments for Teeth Grinding

Patients with mild forms of bruxism benefit from prescribed muscle relaxants and physical therapy. Exercising tense muscles in the face, jaw, shoulders, and back can lessen stress. There are also several treatments that may be used to stop bruxism and address tooth or jaw problems:

  • Nightguards: Similar to mouthguards, nightguards are protective oral appliances worn during sleep. Nightguards keep the teeth from grinding together and also protect the teeth from further wear or injury.
  • Bite Correction Therapy: Also known as bite equilibration, there are multiple treatments that may be used to correct the bite. Some patients benefit from orthodontics that straightens their teeth. Patients with more severe cases of bruxism may require surgery or jaw expanders to treat teeth grinding and correct their jaw problems.
  • Restorative and Cosmetic Dental Care: For patients with worn or broken teeth, we recommend dental crowns, dental bonding, and porcelain veneers. These treatments cover chips and cracks in the tooth enamel. They also help strengthen teeth that have been damaged by teeth clenching and grinding.

Contact Dr. Caves for Treatment Today

Do you wake up with jaw or tooth pain? Treat teeth grinding today and schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Caves on our website. If you are a new patient, you may call (706) 407-4851. Current patients may make an appointment by calling (706) 571-0079.