If you find yourself asking yourself any of the following questions, you should schedule an appointment with my dental team.
- Why do my teeth hurt every morning?
- Why are my jaws always sore?
- Why do I experience frequent head, neck, and shoulder pain?
- Why do my teeth look worn?
- Why do my teeth randomly crack?
- Why does it look like I have swelling in front of my ears?
These are all signs of nighttime teeth grinding and clenching, commonly known as bruxism. Fortunately, my team and I can provide bruxism relief using a custom nightguard or other related therapies.
Why Am I Grinding My Teeth at Night?
According to a report published in 2024:
“The highest prevalence of sleep bruxism was observed in North America at 31%”
That means almost one-third of adults in North America grind and clench their teeth at night (or have at one time or another).
Bruxism may result from stress or anxiety, certain medications, specific medical conditions, hyperactivity, misaligned teeth, or the cause may be unknown for some patients.
As a dentist in Rockville, my goal is to provide symptom relief and help you get back to living your best life without pain or discomfort.
Bruxism Treatment in My Dental Office
A conversation and exam help me determine the potential cause of your bruxism and the extent of damage. It also helps me provide the best treatment course or recommendation.
It’s important to remember that bruxism is closely related to TMJ, which is a disorder of the temporomandibular joints that connect your lower jaw to the skull. TMJ can make it difficult to chew food or open your mouth without pain. Fortunately, bruxism therapies can also address your TMJ.
Treatments may include:
- Stress Relief Exercises
- Functional Exercises
- Orthodontics
- A Nightguard
I’m pleased to offer custom nightguards in Rockville, MD. These splints, worn over the teeth at night, help prevent teeth grinding and clenching, promoting healing and daytime comfort.
Contact My Dental Office to Get Started
To learn more about bruxism or to schedule an appointment, call my office at (202) 804-8990. I look forward to helping you enjoy a pain-free smile!