Millions of people grind their teeth. Also called bruxism, teeth grinding can lead to serious health and dental problems including jaw disorders, headaches, and damaged teeth when left untreated. Bruxism is best treated by a qualified dentist. Dr. Karl Neuhaus has devoted much of his post-graduate training to the diagnosis and treatment of occlusal disorders including teeth grinding and TMJ dysfunction. He can easily diagnose teeth grinding through a simple visual examination.
Identifying the Signs of Teeth Grinding
Symptoms of teeth grinding include:
- Worn, flat, or chipped teeth
- Abraded tooth enamel
- Sensitive teeth
- Jaw pain or tightness in the jaw muscles
- Earache
- Headache
- Facial pain
- Cuts or sores on the inside cheek
Treatment for Teeth Grinding
Stress is the primary cause of teeth grinding. Lifestyle changes and relaxation techniques may help to reduce or stop your teeth from grinding. In many cases, though, professional treatment is needed to correct the source of the problem and repair damage caused by teeth grinding.
- Bite Guard: Our dentists frequently use teeth grinding mouthguard, or bite guard, to stop teeth grinding. A bite guard is a customized, removable appliance similar to a sports mouthguard that is made to fit over your teeth and prevent teeth grinding. Most bite guards are worn at night, however, some patients wear their teeth grinding mouth guards during high-stress situations.
- Bite Alignment Therapy: Dr. Karl Neuhaus is among the most experienced TMJ dentists in the Amherst area, providing a broad range of services to correct the causes of teeth grinding. Malocclusion, or improper alignment of the teeth, is one cause of teeth grinding. Teeth can be corrected to proper alignment through the use of invisible braces, dental crowns, dental veneers, or dental implants.
- Cosmetic Dentistry: Once the teeth grinding causes have been successfully treated, the dentist will focus on repairing damage caused by teeth grinding. Chronic teeth grinding can leave teeth worn, chipped, or broken. Our dentists may repair teeth using dental crowns, porcelain veneers, or cosmetic bonding.
Stop Teeth Grinding
If you or someone you love is suffering from teeth grinding, schedule a consultation with the dentists at Creekside Dentistry in Amherst, NY. A simple bite analysis and consultation can reveal whether or not your teeth grinding is caused by TMJ dysfunction and you can be well on your way to much-needed relief. Call (716) 262-8070 or request an appointment online.