Bruxism means grinding or clenching your teeth, specifically during sleep. Left untreated, bruxism can lead to pain, oral health complications, and more. Fortunately, your Lake Charles, LA dentist can evaluate and treat bruxism.
Let’s explore the causes of bruxism and potential treatments.
Bruxism Causes in Lake Charles
Bruxism may result from night terrors, stress, or anxiety. It can also be linked to sleep apnea and lead to TMJ. In some cases, the cause of bruxism is not known.
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep condition that causes chronic breathing cessation periods during the night. Without treatment, sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, stroke, kidney disease, and more. Likewise, untreated TMJ can mean chronic headaches, upper-body pain, and jaw popping and locking.
Bruxism symptoms are like those found in TMJ, with the added complications of teeth wear/fractures and exaggerated musculature in front of the ears.
Teeth Grinding Treatment in Lake Charles, LA
Treatment for bruxism may include leveling the bite force through crowning or similar restorations. Orthodontics is also a potential treatment.
Your dentist may also suggest specific exercises or therapies with a trained professional, including stress and anxiety treatments.
In many cases, your dentist relies on a custom nightguard to curb bruxism and help rest the TMJs. The nightguard fits over the teeth and prevents the upper and lower jaws from connecting or grinding during sleep.
We may discuss single treatments or combination therapies to address your specific needs.
For Bruxism Treatment, Contact Us Today
Call us today to learn more about bruxism or its known complications or to book a consultation with the dentist.
Your Lake Charles dentist accepts financing through CareCredit. This medical/dental credit card allows you to budget for recommended and elective treatments. Applying for CareCredit is easy, and decisions are typically prompt. Ask a dental team member for details.