Bruxism (teeth grinding) is a condition that can occur during the day or the night, but is most common while asleep. Most humans experience bruxism at some point in their lives. Dr. Andrew Smith and our team offer a number of treatments to alleviate the effects of bruxism and restore your smile to a healthy, functional state. Call Wasatch Gentle Dental at 801-262-6661 to learn more about bruxism in Murray, Utah, and schedule your consultation with our experienced dentist.
Bruxism is one of the biggest contributing factors to tooth damage, and is frequently misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all due to the fact that it is only one of several potential causes of tooth wear. Only trained dental professionals can tell the difference between tooth wear and damage caused by bruxism and the wear and damage caused by overaggressive brushing, and acidic or abrasive foods and beverages.
Common symptoms of bruxism include earaches, headaches, aching jaws, muscle tension in the neck, depression, and eating disorders. If untreated, bruxism can lead to a host of oral and health problems, including:
- Gum recession
- Tooth loss
- Fractured and broken teeth
- Excessively worn teeth
- Arthritis
- Headaches and migraines
- Myofascial pain
If you are diagnosed with bruxism, our dentist will carefully evaluate your needs to determine which treatment will be most beneficial for you. Treatments for bruxism include:
- Night guards
- NTI-tss devices
- BOTOX®
- Relaxation exercises
- Stress management
- Biofeedback mechanisms
After your bruxism is under control and is not causing further damage to your teeth, our dentist will recommend a restorative treatment, such as dental crowns, gum grafts, or crown lengthening, to restore the aesthetic appearance of your smile.
For more information about bruxism and to make your appointment with our caring dental professionals, please contact our office.
