Do you ever wake up with a sore jaw or a headache? You might be clenching or grinding your teeth at night, a condition known as bruxism. Bruxism can be caused by stress, anxiety, or even certain medications. While it’s a common problem, it can lead to damaged teeth, jaw pain, and even headaches.
Here at DiBartola Dental in Bridgeville, Dr. Wayne DiBartola wants to help you identify and address bruxism so you can sleep soundly and wake up feeling refreshed.
Bruxism is a condition characterized by involuntary clenching, grinding, or gnashing of your teeth. It can occur during sleep (nocturnal bruxism) or while awake (awake bruxism). Many people experience occasional teeth grinding, especially during stressful times. However, bruxism becomes a concern when it happens frequently and intensely, leading to potential damage to your teeth, jaw, and even headaches.
While the exact causes of bruxism are unknown, some factors are believed to contribute to it, including:
Teeth grinding can be a silent condition, especially when it occurs at night. However, several signs and symptoms can point to bruxism, including:
Since bruxism often occurs at night, you might not even be aware of it. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of factors, including:
By diagnosing bruxism early and implementing appropriate treatment, you can prevent further damage to your teeth and jaw and improve your overall well-being.
Bruxism doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all cure, but Dr. Wayne DiBartola at DiBartola Dental can offer a variety of treatments to manage your symptoms and protect your teeth. Here are some common options:
A custom-made mouthguard, often worn at night, creates a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding together.
Dr. Wayne DiBartola can recommend stress management techniques like relaxation therapy, meditation, or yoga to help reduce bruxism episodes triggered by stress or anxiety.
If you clench your jaw during the day, Dr. Wayne DiBartola can offer tips on how to become more aware of the habit and relax your jaw muscles. This might involve practicing good posture, applying warm compresses, or gentle jaw massages.
If an underlying medical condition like sleep apnea is contributing to bruxism, treating that condition can also help alleviate bruxism symptoms.
In severe cases, Dr. Wayne DiBartola may prescribe muscle relaxants or other medications to help relax your jaw muscles before bed. However, medication is usually not a long-term solution.
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent bruxism altogether, here are some lifestyle changes that can help reduce your risk:
If you suspect you might have bruxism, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr. Wayne DiBartola at DiBartola Dental by calling (412) 221-9440. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can effectively manage bruxism and prevent future dental problems.
Bruxism is a treatable condition. If you think you might have it, schedule an appointment with Dr. Wayne DiBartola at DiBartola Dental by calling (412) 221-9440. We can help you stop grinding your worries away and start getting a good night’s sleep.
Call 412-221-9440 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.