Bruxism, a common yet frequently overlooked dental condition, can have a significant impact on one’s oral health and overall well-being. This condition is often described as the grinding or clenching of teeth, especially during sleep. Fortunately, there are several effective bruxism treatment options available to help patients get lasting relief.
Are you waking up with sore jaws, neck pain, or sensitive teeth? You might be grinding your teeth while you sleep. Bruxism treatment with the team at Metropolitan Dental Care in Denver, CO, can help. Call us today at (303) 534-2626 to beat the pain.
There are plenty of bruxism treatment options that you can explore. In this blog, we delve into these treatments, helping you understand how to address this issue and regain control of your oral health.
Understanding Bruxism
Generally, dental experts categorize bruxism into two types: awake bruxism and sleep bruxism.
Typically, awake bruxism occurs during periods of stress, anxiety, or concentration during daily activities. Sleep bruxism, on the other hand, happens while slumbering. Studies find that only 5% of the population experiences awake bruxism compared to 16.5% of the population experiencing sleep bruxism.
Effective Bruxism Treatment Options
Patients have plenty of options to choose from, including:
Dental Splints or Mouthguards
Dental splints or mouthguards are among the most common bruxism treatment options. Dentists can craft these appliances based on impressions of your teeth, ensuring a comfortable fit. They create a cushion between the lower and upper teeth and keep them out of contact with each other.
Stress Management and Behavioral Therapy
Stress is a major contributor to bruxism, so finding effective stress management techniques can be a crucial part of treatment. Behavioral therapy, relaxation exercises, and meditation can help individuals manage stress and reduce bruxism episodes.
Medications
In some cases, your dentist or healthcare provider may recommend medications to help manage bruxism symptoms, such as muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety medications.
Dental Correction
If misaligned teeth or an abnormal bite are causing bruxism, your dentist may suggest orthodontic treatment or dental restorations to correct the issue. Proper alignment of teeth can alleviate the pressure and grinding that contribute to bruxism.
Lifestyle Modifications
Simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in managing bruxism. Avoiding substances like caffeine and alcohol can reduce the risk of teeth grinding during sleep.
Biofeedback
Biofeedback therapy involves using sensors to monitor muscle activity in the jaw and provide feedback to the patient. Using this information, individuals can become more aware of their bruxism habits, allowing them to consciously work on reducing clenching and grinding.
Explore Your Bruxism Treatment Options in Denver, CO
If you suspect that you might be clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth, then it’s worth exploring your bruxism treatment options with the team at Metropolitan Dental Care. We can help you find solutions that meet your lifestyle and budget. But, time is of the essence – uncontrolled bruxism can lead to lasting damage.
Schedule an appointment online to discuss bruxism treatment, or call our team today at (303) 534-2626 to learn more about your options.
