Bruxism Treatment in Prosper, TX

What Is Bruxism?

Have you ever woken up in the morning with a jaw that aches or feels tender? Do you notice that you often grit your teeth and clench your jaw while powering through a tight deadline at work? If so, you may suffer from a common condition called bruxism. This disorder, which derives its name from the Greek word for “a gnashing of teeth,” is popularly referred to as nighttime teeth grinding. While the most common cause of bruxism is stress, other factors such as anger, allergies, and anxiety can cause you to unconsciously grind your teeth and clench your jaw. Some sufferers have been told by their bedmates that they grind their teeth in the night. However, people who sleep alone very often have no idea of the cause of their jaw pain and headaches.

Complications Associated with Bruxism

Chronic teeth grinding, if left untreated, can lead to two significant oral health problems:

1) TMJ disorder (TMD). Grinding your teeth places excessive stress on the temporomandibular joints, those joints on either side of your face where the lower jaw connects to the skull. TMJ/TMD can cause chronic headaches, neck and shoulder pain, facial pain, ringing ears, popping jaws, and other painful and problematic symptoms.

2) Worn enamel. As the teeth grind together, the enamel wears away. Thinning enamel exposes the nerve-filled inner layers of the teeth and can lead to sensitivity to hot and cold beverages and foods. Furthermore, worn enamel is more susceptible to tooth decay.

Treatment Options for Bruxism in the 75078 Area 

You may have already started taking over-the-counter pain medication to treat the sore jaw and headaches that often accompany bruxism. At your checkup with Dr. Patel, he will recognize the unique patterns of wear that characterize bruxism. In most cases, Dr. Patel will prescribe an occlusal splint, a custom-fitted mouthguard that protects your teeth from wear. Dr. Patel may also suggest addressing the stress and anxiety that may be at the heart of your teeth grinding. Oftentimes, lifestyle modification techniques such as decreasing your caffeine intake or practicing mediation or yoga can help alleviate teeth grinding.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Prosper Dentist

At Prosper Smiles Family Dentistry, we have created a different kind of dental practice: one that focuses on family, fun, and creating healthy, beautiful smiles. To schedule an appointment, please contact us at (972) 347-9617. From our state-of-the-art dentist’s office in Prosper, TX, Dr. Patel and his talented staff proudly provide general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry to families in Celina, Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Denton, and Allen.