Teeth grinding is a common habit that affects up to half the population, and around 5% of people regularly and forcefully grind their teeth. The official name for teeth grinding is bruxism. You can have sleeping or awake bruxism, but both are harmful to your teeth. Grinding your teeth can cause them to wear down, a condition known as attrition. Finding the right treatment can not only improve comfort but protect your teeth.
At Soft Touch Dentistry, we specialize in helping patients with bruxism find long-lasting solutions. Our skilled dentist, Dr. Nazila Bidabadi, is also an expert in general dentistry and cosmetic restorations, so she can help you treat bruxism and restore your smile if your teeth have been damaged from chronic grinding.
Consult With a Dentist
The most important thing to do if you have bruxism is to speak with a dentist who manages the condition. Bruxism can be caused by various factors, and the right treatment for each patient will differ. Some may need orthodontic treatment, while others need to address temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction.
Visiting our team in Brighton or Newton, MA, can help you find the relief you need through a personalized care plan.
Consider a Mouthguard
Mouthguards help prevent your teeth from being worn down due to grinding. They can be custom-made by a dentist or purchased over the counter. If you choose to purchase one, look for a mouthguard you can boil to soften it and ensure a comfortable fit.
It is also important to note that some mouthguards can shift your teeth, so it may be advisable to speak with your dentist about which mouthguards they recommend before buying one.
BOTOX® Injections
BOTOX is a neurotoxin injectable that can help treat teeth grinding by temporarily relaxing the masseter muscle in your jaw. Doing so can help reduce tension and the intensity and frequency of teeth grinding.
Practice Stress Reduction
Many patients with bruxism develop the condition in response to stress. Muscles naturally tighten when levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) rise. By practicing techniques like mindfulness meditation and muscle relaxation, you may be able to reduce stress and teeth grinding in one. This can be beneficial not only for your teeth but your mental health as well.
Correcting Jaw Position
Your dentist can evaluate your current bite and let you know what your appropriate jaw position is. Then, you can practice holding this position for certain periods of time, gradually increasing the length as you grow more comfortable. Some patients may benefit from corrective treatment to realign their oral rest posture.
Schedule a Visit With Dr. Bidabadi
Dr. Bidabadi is the chief cosmetic dentist at Soft Touch Dentistry. Her excellence and expertise have allowed her to serve as a clinical instructor at the Harvard University School of Dental Medicine for over a decade.
Please contact our office in Brighton, MA (617-782-9250) or Newton, MA (617-332-8146). You can also contact us online.
