a woman with a bruxism problem is under review by her dentist

bruxism treatment plan

Bruxism diagnosis & treatment in Texas

Bruxism is a common condition characterized by teeth grinding and jaw clenching, occurring during the day or night. It is one of the most prevalent sleep disorders, often linked to an overactive chewing reflex that should normally be inactive during sleep.

A BiteStrip® device helps diagnose bruxism by monitoring jaw muscle activity during sleep. Once diagnosed, a treatment plan can be created to prevent further damage and relieve symptoms.

Effects of bruxism

Bruxism typically causes:

    Excessive wear on the front teeth due to side-to-side grinding.
    Strain on jaw muscles and temporomandibular joints (TMJ).
    Symptoms like headaches, earaches, anxiety, and eating disorders.

Bruxism can be difficult to diagnose as it shares symptoms with other dental conditions, such as aggressive brushing or acidic erosion. A trained professional can differentiate between these causes.

Why treat bruxism?

Bruxism can cause significant dental and jaw complications if left untreated. Key reasons for seeking treatment include:

    Gum Recession & Tooth LossGrinding weakens soft tissues, loosening teeth and creating deep pockets where bacteria thrive, leading to bone loss.
    Occlusal TraumaExcessive grinding wears down teeth, increasing the risk of fractures that may require restorative treatment.
    TMJ Arthritis Chronic bruxism can strain the jaw joints, potentially leading to arthritis and persistent pain.
    Myofascial Pain Grinding shortens and blunts teeth, often causing severe headaches and facial muscle discomfort.

Bruxism treatment options

While there’s no single cure, several treatments can help manage bruxism:

    MouthguardsCustom-made acrylic guards protect teeth from excessive wear and help stabilize the jaw.
    NTI-tss Device A small device fitted to the front teeth reduces jaw muscle contraction, preventing molar grinding.
    Botox® TherapyInjections relax the jaw muscles enough to reduce grinding without affecting normal functions like speaking or chewing.
    Lifestyle Changes Stress management, relaxation exercises, and biofeedback techniques can help reduce bruxism.

Once bruxism is under control, restorative procedures like crowns, gum grafts, or crown lengthening can help restore your smile.