Bruxism is a condition characterized by the grinding and clenching of teeth. It is a fairly common condition, and while it can occur at any time is more frequent at night. This means that bruxism often goes unnoticed until significant dental damage occurs. Bruxism can impact not only your teeth but your overall wellbeing, making it crucial that you receive treatment for this condition as soon as possible.
Common signs of bruxism include:
- Broken, chipped or excessively worn teeth
- Damage to dental restorations, such as crowns or bridges
- Jaw disorders, including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunctions
- Persistent headaches and migraines
- Earaches or tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Muscle pain in the neck, shoulders and facial region
- Indentations on the side of the tongue
- Tired or tight feelings in the jaw, or pain in the jaw when waking up
Recognizing these symptoms early is key to effectively treating bruxism. If you experience any of these symptoms and believe you may have bruxism, please speak with our dentist and team to receive a diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan.
There are several types of treatment which our dentist may recommend depending on the severity and impact of bruxism on your oral health. These options include:
- Oral Appliances: Night guards and splints are the most common treatments. These devices, custom-fitted by a dentist, help to alleviate the pressure on teeth and the jaw during sleep.
- Stress Management: Since stress is one of the key triggers for bruxism, strategies such as yoga, meditation and counseling can be beneficial.
- Dental Correction: In cases where bruxism has altered the bite or damaged the teeth, corrective treatments such as orthodontics or restorative dentistry may be necessary.
- Medication: In some instances, muscle relaxants or medications for anxiety can help manage the symptoms associated with bruxism.
During your initial consultation, Dr. Pasquale Malpeso will conduct a thorough examination to determine the extent of the damage and which type or combination of treatments will be most effective for you. Call 212-838-0090 today to schedule your appointment and learn more about bruxism treatment in New York, New York.