Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

What is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the grinding or clenching of teeth. It happens to children and adults. Teeth grinding most often occur when one is asleep. Many times the individual with bruxism would wakes up with a headache or sore jaw muscles.

Teeth can be ground away. This habit can damage the underlying bone beneath the teeth, possibly leading the teeth to becoming loose. The Temporo-Mandibular Joint (jaw joint) could be damaged if the Teeth Grinding condition is not taken care of.

What should I do if my Child is grinding their Teeth?

It is not uncommon for children to grind their teeth when their teeth are erupting. Most of the time it is not cause for concern. In more severe cases of teeth grinding, your child could possible develop malocclusion. Over time, malocclusion (bite) could lead to TMJ problems or the need of braces. If your child has a problem with teeth grinding, please call and schedule an appointment with one of the dentists at Front Range Dental Center.

What causes Bruxism in Adults?

Malocclusion or Stress may cause adults to grind their teeth at night. The attrition from bruxism can lead to TMJ problems, Sensitivity, and Malocclusion. The noise from the teeth grinding may disrupt the partner’s sleep

How can dentists fix or correct Bruxism?

Your Fort Collins dentist can treat Bruxism, once the cause of the condition is determined. Stress is a major factor, while uneven or crooked teeth may also be a source of annoyance for a person suffering bruxism. People with an incorrect bite or who have ‘high-spots’ in their bite also have a habit of grinding their teeth.

The dentists at Front Range Dental Center sometime recommend some of the following treatments:

• Night Guard – custom made appliances to be worn at night to prevent teeth grinding. See more here.
• Correcting the malocclusion by fixed by fillings or crowns
• Orthodontic treatment to correct crooked or uneven teeth
• Reducing stress

Front Range Dental Center PLLC is located in Southeast Fort Collins near the intersection of Harmony Road and Ziegler Road. Our Fort Collins dentists serve the following dental communities: Timnath, Windsor, Loveland, Ft Collins, Ault, LaPorte, and Cheyenne, Wyoming.