Teeth Grinding Treatment in Gambrills, MD

Wake up to the effects of untreated bruxism! Effective, custom treatment of chronic teeth grinding is here.

Bingham-Lester Dentistry believes all our neighbors from across the Annapolis, Gambrills, Crofton, and Odenton Maryland area deserve a healthy mouth and a beautiful smile. Dr. Vickii R. Bingham-Lester supports a lifetime of oral health and an attractive smile by both spotting the signs of bruxism and treating this potentially destructive behavior promptly and effectively.

Male patient with teeth grinding issue in Gambrills, MD
Female patient experiencing teeth grinding while sleeping in Gambrills, MD

What is bruxism?

Bruxism is defined as the involuntary or semi-voluntary grinding and clenching of the teeth. The jaws also clench, firmly clamping down on the teeth and straining the jaw muscles. While individuals may chronically grind their teeth when awake, bruxism often arises during the early sleep stages.

What causes it?

Bruxism can be primary (not related to other medical issues) or it may be secondary to different conditions and even medications. While there is no single, prominent “trigger,” this condition is often associated with poorly-managed or untreated anxiety and stress. While children may use thumb-sucking and biting as emotional outlets, adults’ aggressions and emotions may be expressed and released with behaviors like teeth grinding. The use of stimulants like caffeine and other oral issues (like misaligned teeth) has also been implicated in new or worsening bruxism.

Woman grinding her teeth causing noise in Gambrills, MD
Female patient experiencing jaw discomfort in Gambrills, MD

What are the signs of teeth grinding?

There are many! Dentists like Dr. Bingham-Lester are often on the front lines of detecting this condition during routine exams. Otherwise, it might go untreated and cause considerable damage to the teeth and other parts of the mouth. During these exams, she may notice:

  • Distinctive wear patterns on the teeth
  • Teeth that appear “flattened”
  • A very smooth appearance with little surface texture
  • A rounding of the pointy canine teeth
  • Chipped teeth
  • Excessive and early wear and tear to fillings, crowns, and other dental restorations

Patients with bruxism may also complain about temporomandibular joint (TMJ)-related symptoms. Clenching can manifest as muscular soreness, chronic headaches, and discomfort originating from the TMJ or jaw joint connected to the skull.

How do you treat bruxism?

One highly effective method at the dentist’s office is a professional night guard or oral splint. These appliances or devices help redistribute the excessive forces placed on your teeth and tissues. Worn while you sleep, they reduce muscle tensions, support the jaw joint, protect both natural teeth and restorations, and improve the severity and frequency of your symptoms. The nightguards available at Bingham-Lester Dentistry are customized to fit your mouth. So, they can effectively protect your teeth and tissues. They fit comfortably and precisely and hold up well, making them a terrific value and investment in your smile!

What happens if you don’t treat bruxism?

The forces placed on your teeth and tissues from bruxism are three to 10 times more powerful than regular chewing. This excessive force can progressively thin your tooth enamel, result in fractures or cracks, and even damage the gums and supportive bone in the jaw. Your teeth may become loose and may even be lost. You can avoid these complications by contacting Bingham-Lester Dentistry today. Take the first step to healthier habits that support a healthier mouth. Call our team at (410) 885-6522 to request your consultation.