Bruxism

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, puts pressure on your teeth, leading to pain, swelling, and tooth damage. At Bright and Shine Dental in Coral Springs, Florida, Paola Kesman, DDS, uses innovative treatments for bruxism to prevent complications, such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Call Bright and Shine Dental or schedule an appointment online today for comprehensive, cost-effective bruxism care.

What is bruxism?

Bruxism is a chronic dental condition that causes teeth grinding. When you have bruxism, you may unconsciously gnash your teeth together and clench the muscles that support your temporomandibular joints. You have one of these joints on each side of your jaw. They connect your jaw to your skull, enabling you to chew and speak comfortably.

Without treatment, bruxism can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). This series of jaw disorders can cause chronic pain, facial swelling, and discomfort. 

What are the symptoms of bruxism?

Many people don’t realize they have bruxism because they grind their teeth while they sleep. Biannual dental exams and teeth cleanings are crucial to detect early warning signs of bruxism. If the condition progresses, you may experience:

• Tooth sensitivity and pain
• Pain while chewing
• Tense jaw muscles
• Headaches
• Earaches
• Facial swelling
• Tongue indentations
• Sores inside the cheeks
• Tooth erosion
• Cracks and chips in the teeth

If you have TMD, your jaw may start to pop or click when you open and close your mouth. Some individuals experience lockjaw, which causes the jaw muscles to tense and freeze their mouth into an open position.

What causes bruxism?

Certain personality types are at a heightened risk of developing bruxism, particularly those who are hyperactive, aggressive, or anxiety-prone. Other common risk factors for bruxism include:

• Underlying conditions, such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• A family history of bruxism
• Consuming too much caffeine or alcohol
• Smoking cigarettes
• Certain medications, including antidepressants

Bruxism is especially common in children but frequently affects adults as well. Many children grow out of teeth grinding, though early intervention is critical to preventing tooth damage.

How is bruxism diagnosed?

Dr. Kesman can typically diagnose bruxism during a dental exam. Tooth erosion often impacts your teeth if you have bruxism. The teeth become smooth and straight-edged. This telltale sign can help Dr. Kesman diagnose teeth grinding. She may also take digital X-rays to determine the extent of the damage.

What are the treatments for bruxism?

As a family-friendly dentist, Dr. Kesman believes bruxism treatment should be effective and affordable for all of her patients. She offers innovative treatments for teeth grinding, including:

• Custom-made night guards to prevent grinding
• Orthodontics to treat underlying bite problems
• Medication to relax the jaw muscles
• A night splint to push the tongue forward

Dr. Kesman may also recommend relaxation tips to reduce stress and encourage healthy sleep habits. 

To learn more about bruxism, call Bright and Shine Dental or schedule an appointment online today.