For many patients, bruxism, or teeth clenching and grinding, may occur unconsciously during sleep. Thankfully, Dr. Christopher Rebol and offers treatment for teeth clenching and grinding patients in Asheville, NC. At Rebol Family Dentistry, Dr. Rebol works with patients to find the best solution for their dental concerns.
If you suffer from jaw pain or headaches, you may have bruxism. Call our office today at 828-247-7222. We will help you find the right solution to stop your pain and protect your teeth.
Signs of Bruxism
Multiple common symptoms of bruxism include:
- Jaw pain
- Muscle tenderness
- Headaches
- Chronic facial pain
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Worn teeth
Risk factors can also contribute to bruxism, including crooked and misaligned teeth, as well as TMJ disorders. If you have these conditions, you are more prone to developing bruxism in the future. It is important to be aware of any changes in your bite or sudden facial or jaw pain. Because of teeth clenching and grinding, the tooth enamel can wear away or crack. Visiting the dentist as soon as you discover a dental problem helps ensure that oral health issues do not develop further.
Causes of Teeth Grinding
Two types of teeth grinding exist. Awake bruxism can be something you do subconsciously when you’re concentrating or something similar. It may also be a response to emotions like anger, stress, or frustration. Night bruxism is something you do when you’re asleep and unaware of it. Arousals can cause it during sleep and subconscious responses to emotions you may have felt throughout the day.
Certain conditions make you more likely to grind your teeth. Increased stress or anxiety in your life is one of the most common reasons for bruxism. If you’re a person that’s particularly aggressive, competitive, or hyper, it can translate into teeth grinding. Sleep bruxism runs in families, so if your family members exhibit these behaviors, you’re also more likely to experience them. Children commonly experience sleep bruxism and grow out of it as they age.
Lastly, medications and other medical problems can lead to bruxism. Certain antidepressants have this as a known side effect. Caffeine and recreational drugs may emphasize this too. Parkinson’s, epilepsy, sleep disorders, and ADHD are all medical conditions that can come with bruxism as well.
Patient Review
Treating Bruxism at Rebol Family Dentistry
Before treatment, our dentists will assess your teeth and gums to note any damage or wear. We provide oral appliance therapy through the use of custom night guards. These mouthguards can be worn at night to prevent tooth damage. They take the pressure off the jaw and relieve the pain caused by bruxism.
Following night guard treatment, some patients may require restorative or cosmetic care. Crooked teeth can be treated with Invisalign clear aligners to straighten teeth gradually. Patients with tooth damage or loss caused by severe bruxism may require dental crowns or dental implants.
For patients with minor cases of bruxism, ice packs, anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety medications, and jaw stretching exercises may be used for patients with minor cases of bruxism. These gentle treatments act as therapeutic care for the jaw and facial muscles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you want to learn more? We’ll be glad to help. Read answers to common questions about bruxism in Asheville, NC.
When should I see a dentist for bruxism?
You should see a dentist as soon as you notice symptoms like jaw pain, morning headaches, tooth wear, or sudden changes in your bite. Even if you have mild symptoms, early treatment is the best way to prevent your symptoms from worsening.
Don’t wait if you experience persistent pain, difficulty chewing, or other dental problems. Contact our office right away.
Can teeth grinding cause ear pain?
Yes, teeth grinding can sometimes cause ear pain. When you grind or clench your teeth, the muscles around your jaw and face become tense. This tension can radiate to nearby areas, including the ears, and may feel like earaches or pressure. If you notice ear pain along with jaw soreness, headaches, or worn teeth, it could be a sign of bruxism.
Is bruxism hereditary?
Yes, bruxism can run in families. If your parents or siblings grind their teeth, you may be more likely to develop it as well. This is often true for nighttime bruxism, which often happens during sleep.
Even if bruxism runs in your family, treatments like night guards, stress management, and dental care can help protect your teeth and reduce symptoms.
Can misaligned teeth make bruxism worse?
Yes, misaligned or crooked teeth can make bruxism worse. When your teeth don’t fit together properly, your jaw muscles have to work harder, which can increase clenching and grinding. Over time, this extra stress can lead to more tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches.
Can bruxism cause tooth sensitivity?
Yes. Grinding and clenching wear down the enamel, which is the protective layer of your teeth. When enamel is worn away, it exposes the underlying dentin. As a result, your teeth can be more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
Can I rebuild damaged teeth from teeth grinding?
Yes, we can work with you to restore your teeth. The type of treatment depends on the severity of the damage. We recommend tooth bonding for minor wear or chips. For more serious damage, crowns or dental implants may be needed to restore strength, function, and a natural look.
Do I need physical therapy if I grind my teeth?
Yes, we sometimes recommend that you visit a physical therapist if you grind your teeth from TMD. PT visits can help you learn exercises to work the muscles in your face and upper body. Stretching and relaxing these muscles can reduce tension in your face and jaw. Wearing a TMJ night guard and going to physical therapy can help you lessen your symptoms.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you’re experiencing symptoms like jaw pain or worn teeth, it’s time to contact your dentist. Get teeth grinding treatment in our Asheville, NC, dental office. Call us at 828-247-7222 or schedule an appointment online.