Treatment for Teeth Grinding, or Bruxism

Do you often wake up with a dull headache or a sore jaw? Do you ever find yourself clenching your teeth? Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a condition that wears away tooth enamel and eventually loosens teeth. The causes of are not fully understood, but it is believed that stress, abnormal bite and crooked or missing teeth may be responsible. If you suspect you are routinely grinding your teeth, see your dentist about protecting your smile.

The procedure: Based on your dentist's diagnosis, one or more types of treatment may be recommended. A custom-made appliance may be worn while you sleep. It slips over your upper teeth and prevents contact with your lower teeth. Besides protecting the teeth, it also relieves pressure to the delicate jaw joints caused by grinding and clenching. If an abnormal bite is the cause of bruxism, treatment may involve reducing any high spots to even the bite. If bite problems are extreme, reshaping or reconstructing the biting surfaces with inlays or crowns may be necessary. When everyday stress seems to be the cause of bruxism, it may be helpful to find ways of relaxing - listening to music, reading a book, taking a walk or a warm bath. If you have particular difficulty handling stress, counseling may help you find more effective methods of coping.