Bruxism Treatment in Pasadena, TX
Bruxism is a disorder in which the patient grinds, gnashes, or clenches their teeth. Although some individuals may experience bruxism during the day, it most frequently occurs during sleep.
Occasional teeth grinding is not harmful. However, when bruxism occurs often, the teeth can be damaged, and other oral complications may occur.
Dr. Paul Covell, a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, and his team treat bruxism in our office located in Pasadena, TX. We also provide dental services to patients in the surrounding areas, including Houston, TX.
Long-Term Risks of Untreated Bruxism
Individuals with bruxism are more likely to suffer from other sleep-related disorders, such as snoring or sleep apnea. Sleep partners may notice bruxism in one another, and dentists can often diagnose the disorder based on evidence of damage to teeth or crowns they discover during routine examinations.
Aside from causing discomfort or pain in the jaw and face, bruxism can also lead to other complications, including:
- Damage to the teeth, such as tooth erosion or fracture
- Tension headaches
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), which causes pain and dysfunction in the joints connecting the jaw to the skull
- Sleep disruption for both the person with bruxism and their bed partner
Bruxism Risk Factors
There is no specific known cause for bruxism. However, individuals are more at risk for the disorder if they:
- Have certain abnormalities of the jaw
- Are stressed or anxious
- Have other sleep disorders
- Have missing, crooked, or misaligned teeth
- Drink alcohol to excess
- Are highly competitive or aggressive
- Smoke or drink caffeinated beverages
- Take illegal stimulants
Because stress, smoking, and consumption of alcohol, caffeine, and recreational drugs can play a part in bruxism, healthy life changes and relaxation exercises, especially those involving the jaw and mouth, may help to resolve the problem.
Bruxism Symptoms
Over time, bruxism can wear down enamel, chip, and even fracture or loosen teeth. Bruxism can also cause damage to the inner cheek or tongue.
During a dental examination, Dr. Covell may discover early signs of the disorder, which is one of the reasons that regular dental checkups are vital.
Apart from a sleep partner reporting the sound of teeth grinding or clenching, the patient may become aware of the condition because they experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Facial or jaw pain
- Tight or fatigued jaw muscles
- Feeling that the jaw won’t open or close completely
- Earache
- Headache at the temples
- Difficulty sleeping through the night
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- A clicking sound as the jaw is opened or closed
How Is Bruxism Diagnosed?
Dr. Covell will likely diagnose bruxism during a routine checkup when he examines your teeth for signs of wear and asks about jaw pain or discomfort.
Sometimes, he recommends a sleep study to observe and record nighttime teeth-grinding behavior. If TMJ is suspected, he may use imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs for further evaluation.
Bruxism Treatments
Several treatments exist for managing bruxism symptoms. Common options include:
- Using a custom mouth guard to protect teeth from grinding at night
- Taking a prescription muscle relaxant to relax the jaw muscles
- Undergoing orthodontic adjustments or surgery for severe cases
In cases where bruxism has damaged teeth, an experienced dentist like Dr. Covell should be consulted to discuss potential teeth restorations.
FAQs
What Lifestyle Changes Can Help With Teeth Grinding?
Bruxism treatment often includes a combination of self-care measures and medical or dental interventions. These can include:
- Practicing relaxation techniques or stress management
- Avoiding or cutting back on substances that may worsen bruxism, such as alcohol and caffeine
- Receiving counseling or therapy to address underlying psychological factors
- Using a mouth guard or splint during sleep
- Receiving BOTOX® Cosmetic injections to relax the jaw muscles
- Undergoing dental procedures to repair damage caused by teeth grinding
Can Worn Down Teeth Be Fixed?
Sometimes, worn-down or damaged teeth can be restored with procedures such as dental crowns, dental bridges, porcelain veneers, bonding, and fillings. However, Dr. Paul Covell encourages patients to address the underlying cause of bruxism to prevent further damage to the teeth.
Dr. Covell can provide individualized recommendations for restoring and protecting your teeth. For some, this may include wearing a nighttime oral appliance to protect the teeth and any dental restorations placed to repair worn-down or cracked teeth.
Does Bruxism Damage Dental Restorations?
Yes, bruxism can damage custom dental restorations, including dental crowns, bridges, and porcelain veneers.
Dr. Paul Covell and his team can address teeth-grinding behavior and offer solutions to protect your dental work. This may include wearing a mouth guard or splint during sleep, receiving counseling or therapy, and undergoing additional dental procedures to repair the damage.
Can Children Develop Bruxism?
Yes, children can develop bruxism, and it is relatively common. Many children grind or clench their teeth during sleep or while awake, and in most cases, they outgrow the habit as they get older.
Bruxism in children may be related to factors like:
- Misaligned teeth
- Stress
- Pain from teething
- Medical conditions like sleep disorders
Occasional grinding usually does not cause significant harm. However, persistent bruxism can have long-term negative effects.
If parents notice signs of bruxism in their child, such as tooth wear or complaints of jaw pain, they should consult a dentist for evaluation and possible treatment options.
Are There Specific Foods or Drinks That Worsen Bruxism-Related Discomfort?
Certain foods and drinks can worsen bruxism-related discomfort, including:
- Caffeinated Beverages: Coffee, tea, energy drinks, and soda can trigger the nervous system and increase muscle tension. This leads to more clenching and grinding.
- Alcohol: Alcohol consumption can interfere with sleep patterns. This can cause increased nighttime grinding.
- Chewy or Tough Foods: Steak, gum, and chewy candies strain the jaw muscles. This worsens pain and fatigue.
- Hard Foods: Ice, popcorn kernels, and nuts can increase stress on the teeth and worsen tooth wear or sensitivity.
- Sugary Foods and Drinks: Excess sugar can erode enamel. This makes teeth more sensitive to the effects of grinding.
- Acidic Foods: Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar-based foods can weaken enamel. This increases the risk of sensitivity and damage from bruxism.
- Spicy Foods: Spicy foods can irritate inflamed jaw muscles.
- Carbonated Beverages: Sodas and sparkling water can contribute to enamel erosion and make the teeth more vulnerable to damage.
Can Bruxism Cause Gum Recession or Other Gum Issues?
Bruxism can contribute to gum recession and other gum issues in the following ways:
- Increased Pressure on Gums: The excessive grinding force can cause the gums to recede. It pulls them away from the teeth and exposes the sensitive tooth roots.
- Worsening of Existing Gum Disease: If a person already has gingivitis or periodontitis, bruxism can accelerate gum deterioration. This leads to further inflammation and recession.
- Tooth Mobility: Chronic grinding can weaken the bone supporting the teeth. This makes them more prone to shifting, loosening, or even loss.
- Exposed Tooth Roots & Sensitivity: As gums recede, the dentin (the softer layer beneath enamel) becomes exposed. This increases sensitivity to hot, cold, and acidic foods.
- Increased Risk of Gum Infections: Recessed gums allow bacteria to accumulate more easily. This leads to infections and further gum tissue damage.
- Microtears in Gum Tissue: The constant pressure can create small tears in the gums. This makes them more susceptible to irritation and inflammation.
Why Choose Dr. Paul Covell?
When it comes to treating bruxism, Dr. Paul Covell offers exceptional expertise backed by advanced training at the prestigious L.D. Pankey Institute and the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute (LVI) for Advanced Dental Studies. He stays at the forefront of modern dentistry as a member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and Greater Houston Dental Society.
Our practice upholds the highest standards, prioritizing staff and patient education to ensure personalized, effective care. We are dedicated to providing a positive experience for every patient, helping them achieve lasting relief from bruxism and its complications.
Find Bruxism Treatment in Pasadena, TX, Today
Are you struggling with bruxism and interested in learning more about your treatment options? Dr. Paul Covell and his friendly staff are here to help. Contact our Pasadena, TX, office today at (713) 943-9832 or submit our online form.
Patient testimonial
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