Bruxism

Bruxism refers to clenching or grinding of the teeth. The exact causes of bruxism are not fully understood, but are related to an imbalance in the musculoskeletal system, usually exacerbated by stress and certain medications or chemicals, such as caffeine. Most people are not aware that they clench and/or grind their teeth because it is mostly done during sleep. This makes it very difficult to try to learn how to prevent bruxism, since the majority of people don't discover the issue until it's well established.

A comprehensive dental examination can reveal tell-tale signs of bruxism. Once someone has been diagnosed with bruxism, it is important to manage the habit. Once a person clenches or grinds, they will continue these movements to varying degrees throughout their lives. Our muscles have memory and will continue the habit even if a person wants to stop.

Treatment for Bruxism Options

Nite Guard/NTI

A custom made hard night guard is fabricated to protect your teeth at night from the destructive forces of grinding and clenching. The Guard is fabricated of hard acrylic and is equilibrated to fit your biting and grinding pattern. Adjustments to the bite of the Guard are recommended every few months to ensure that the wear is even.

Occlusal Adjustment

Due to years of wear the bite changes. The teeth fit together unevenly and result in uneven pressure. Some teeth hit/grind together harder than they should, causing uneven wear, sensitive teeth, jaw joint pain, muscle aches, and headaches. Uneven bites can also damage fillings and teeth, ultimately ending in fractures. Just like tires on your car, if the tires are not rotated, there will be uneven wear patterns that damage the car. As a treatment for bruxism, we recommend a bite rebalancing/adjustment and then a Nite guard. By using a fine diamond bur, the uneven pressure spots are adjusted, bringing the bite back into harmony.

Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)

TMD stands for Temporalmandibular Dysfunction, it is commonly known as painful or poor function associated with the jaw joints. TMD can result from blunt force trauma to the jaw joints, chronic uneven bite, severe clenching and grinding, as well as from radiation treatment. To prevent TMD from starting or to lessen the signs and symptoms of TMD, a Nite Guard is often recommended.