teeth-grindingAt Splendid Dental, we have opened up a wide variety of offices north of Houston to provide many types of dental care. While we do specialize in preventative dental care, we understand that there are acute needs that may arise. In some cases, this may include teeth grinding, which is also called bruxism. If you are having issues with a teeth-grinding headache or teeth grinding during sleep, learn more about how we can help you below!

What Is Teeth Grinding and How Does it Affect Me?

Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding. Teeth grinding can occur when a person is asleep or awake. It is, however, far more common during the evening. Based on information that has been released by the Sleep Foundation, close to half of all kids grind their teeth in ways that can be detrimental to their overall dental health. There are lots of reasons why someone may grind their teeth. A few of the most common examples include:

  • Some people grind their teeth as a way to cope with stress.
  • Kids who suffer from nightmares often end up grinding their teeth in response.
  • Some people grind their teeth out of habit.

No matter why someone may suffer from bruxism, it can lead to a variety of complications. When people end up grinding their teeth, they can damage the enamel on the surface. As a result, they may also start to suffer from tooth decay. There are numerous ways that our trained professionals can help people who suffer from teeth grinding.

Night Guards Can Help with Bruxism

If you or someone you know suffers from teeth grinding, night guards are an effective treatment option. Our night guards are designed to sit in between the two rows of teeth. As a result, this will prevent the teeth from grinding against each other. A dentist from our team can take a closer look at your mouth. Then, we can help you find a nightguard that will fit you appropriately. When our guards are used properly, they can help you protect your teeth as you find other ways to address your teeth grinding behavior.

The Treatment of TMJ Disorders

For those who are suffering from a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, teeth grinding can cause jaw pain, headaches, and enamel loss. Specifically, TMJ has to do with the masseter muscles, which are responsible for closing and opening the jaw. Individuals who grind their teeth on a regular basis may develop the syndrome, making it hard for them to relax their jaw to the point that they can use it effectively. Our dental health professionals can take a closer look at the muscle and develop a treatment strategy that can address TMJ syndrome stemming from teeth grinding. This painful but treatable problem can often be solved with a nightguard. While you can purchase a nightguard from most pharmacies, the over-the-counter brands tend not to fit properly. At Splendid Dental in the Woodlands, our dentists can make sure your mouthguard fits perfectly and comfortably. 

Contact Splendid Dental in Spring, Texas, Today for Help with Teeth Grinding

If you are looking for assistance when it comes to teeth grinding, then look no further than Splendid Dental Care. We will work with you to develop a firm treatment strategy in order to help you stop grinding teeth. Whether you have a teeth-grinding headache or are looking for help with teeth grinding in sleep, our professionals will work with you to improve your overall quality of life. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you, contact us today at 713-587-9996!