Bruxism Treatment
If you unconsciously grind, clench, or gnash your teeth, you may have bruxism.
Bruxism can cause long-term damage to your teeth and jaw, increase the risk of developing TMJ disorder, and impact your quality of life.
Dr. Jeffrey M. Dolgos serving Buffalo, NY, offers a wide range of bruxism treatments. He specializes in this complex area of the body.
The Link Between Bruxism and TMJ Disorder
Teeth grinding and clenching can harm your temporomandibular joint and lead to TMJ disorders, often referred to as simply "TMJ." These disorders cause pain in your jaw muscles, create clicking or popping sounds in your jaw, and hinder movement when you open and close your mouth.
In extreme cases, TMJ disorders can lock your jaw, make it difficult to eat, and lead to chronic pain.
If your teeth become worn down, it can lead to jaw misalignment, further aggravating your temporomandibular joint and increasing your chances of developing a TMJ disorder.
Alleviate Your Bruxism With the Help of Our TMJ-Focused Dental Practice
It's our mission to treat TMJ disorders without the need for surgery or expensive restorative dentistry. Dr. Dolgos at Buffalo TMJ in Orchard Park, NY, offers a range of treatment options for TMJ. Sometimes, in order to effectively treat TMJ disorders, we have to focus on treating bruxism.
It may take several visits to the dentist to determine any changes in your teeth or mouth that may indicate bruxism. If you're diagnosed with bruxism, our office can create a treatment plan for you.
To schedule an appointment, fill out our online contact form or call:
(716) 675-5858
"Dr. Dolgos has improved my life like I never thought possible."
Elizabeth Stachewicz
2016
I had been suffering from headaches and pain in my face, ears and temples for about 8 years. I had been to many doctors including one other TMJ specialist, none of which were able to help me alleviate the pain. I finally found Dr. Dolgos a few years ago and the change is incredible! I'm no longer in pain on a daily basis and it has improved my life like I never thought possible. I would highly recommend seeing him!
View on GoogleKathleen Bugenhagen
2016
I have suffered form terrible migraines related to TMJ for a long time. I finally found relief after going to Dr. Dolgos! I recently tried Botox injections for my migraines and have had amazing results! If you haveTMJ I would definitely recommend making an appointment!
View on GoogleWhat Causes Bruxism?
Bruxism is a complex concern that can have many causes and contributing factors. Several factors increase your risk of developing bruxism:
High Stress Levels
Smoking
Using Certain Medications
Drinking Caffeinated or Alcoholic Beverages
Having a Family History of Bruxism
Addressing these factors by making lifestyle changes can help alleviate bruxism, but some patients require treatment from a professional.
An estimated 15% of adolescents, 8% of middle-aged adults, and 3% of older adults are believed to grind their teeth during sleep.
- According to the Sleep Foundation
How Is Bruxism Detected?
Scheduling regular checkups with your dentist allows them to notice the progressive signs of bruxism.
If you've noticed the signs of bruxism yourself, a doctor or dentist can perform an examination to look for enlarged jaw muscles and tooth wear. They may also discuss your medical history and ask you about jaw discomfort upon waking before diagnosing you with the condition.
If you're diagnosed with bruxism, our office can provide you with a solution.
Preventing TMJ by Treating Bruxism
Treating bruxism is important for your overall dental health, but it can also significantly improve your quality of life. Our office serving Buffalo, NY, provides treatment options to patients who struggle with bruxism even after managing stress and making lifestyle changes.
Bruxism is caused by involuntary spasms in the jaw muscles. BOTOX® injections can relax your muscles, alleviating tension in your jaw and minimizing the occurrence of teeth grinding. BOTOX can also treat jaw pain and headaches associated with bruxism. Results can last for three to six months and this option is sometimes preferred by patients who find it uncomfortable to sleep with an occlusal splint.
Occlusal splints are specially designed mouthguards that protect your teeth, jaw muscles, and TMJs from the force of teeth grinding and clenching. Our office serving the Buffalo, NY, area offers customized occlusal splints that can be worn while sleeping. Splints are cost-effective, comfortable, and customized based on your unique needs. This appliance can also aid with mild sleep apnea which in turn, can help to manage grinding and clenching.
Our office has a free online physical therapy program available to our patients. The online program includes eBooks, downloadable content, and a series of demonstration videos that detail exercises you can perform and mindfulness practices that can help reduce teeth grinding and clenching. Our TMJ-focused dental practice also has a YouTube channel where you can learn about the symptoms and treatment of TMJ.
When left untreated, grinding and clenching can wear down your teeth and even cause tooth loss that can be costly to fix. It's important to treat bruxism as soon as possible if you want to forgo the need for expensive restorations.
Does Bruxism Only Happen During Sleep?
Many people associate grinding or clenching your teeth with sleeping, but these concerns can arise either when you're awake or while you sleep.
Awake Bruxism
Awake bruxism leads to the unconscious clenching of your jaw and grinding of your teeth while you're awake. This kind of bruxism is typically caused by stress, anxiety, or anger.
Sleep Bruxism
Sleep bruxism is more dangerous because you may not notice you're grinding and clenching your teeth until there are noticeable signs of wear and pain in your jaw. Bed partners, however, may notice the signs.
When left untreated, bruxism can have a negative impact on your teeth and jaw. There is no cure for bruxism, but it can be managed, resulting in better sleep, less pain, and better quality of life.
Can Children Develop Bruxism?
Children can develop bruxism, but it typically doesn't lead to long-term damage. Children's teeth and jaws grow quickly, so they may outgrow their bruxism by the time they lose their baby teeth.
Stress is one of the main causes of bruxism in adults, but if your child is grinding their teeth while they sleep, it may be due to:
- Allergies
- Teething
- Misaligned teeth
- Mouth irritation
- Sleep apnea
- Genetics
If your child has bruxism, they may report headaches, sensitive teeth, and pain in their face, ear, or jaw. Fortunately, relief from the pain caused by bruxism is available. Helping your child relax before bedtime and having them wear a custom mouthguard from our office can help alleviate their symptoms.
"His treatment plans work!!!!!!" Hear From More Patients
Lydia Romer
2019
Very pleased with Doctor and staff. Professional and extremely competent. Short wait time, friendly everyone, easy parking. Most of all, my treatments seem to be working.
View on GoogleTina Beck
2019
I am so happy to have my daughter and my mom coming here. Dr Dolgos and his staff are supper nice and professional. Its like a family there and your part of it....and the best thing...his treatment plans work!!!!!!
View on GoogleLifestyle Changes to Treat Bruxism
In addition to a treatment plan provided by Dr. Dolgos, there are some lifestyle changes you can try at home to alleviate bruxism and the pain it can cause. These at-home practices include:
- Relax your muscles throughout the day
- Press a warm or cool compress against your jaw to alleviate pain
- Avoid tough or chewy foods
- Avoid chewing on objects like pens, fingernails, and gum
- Undergo physical therapy or massage therapy
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid caffeinated foods and beverages
The Consequences of Untreated Bruxism
Headaches
Morning headaches are one common symptom of bruxism. When you ignore the symptoms of bruxism, they can get worse. Grinding your teeth puts intense pressure on the muscles in your head, which can lead to pain in different areas.
Jaw Dysfunction
Over time, teeth grinding will strain your jaw muscles, jaw joint, and surrounding structures. This gradual damage impairs normal jaw function. This can make it difficult or painful to eat and speak.
Tooth Damage
Grinding your teeth each night can wear on your enamel. This causes tooth sensitivity and can make you lose the strength of your bite. Grinding teeth can also increase your risk of developing decay and even losing your teeth.
A Focus on Patient Education
Dr. Jeffrey Dolgos understands that an important part of treatment is ensuring that a patient understands their disorder. When a patient is suffering from bruxism, Dr. Dolgos will explain what that means, the effect it can have on the body as a whole, and the treatment options that are available.
Once a patient has a firm understanding of their disorder, they are more mindful of it, and therefore better equipped to fix it.
To request a consultation, fill out our online contact form or call our Orchard Park, NY, office serving the Buffalo area at:
(716) 675-5858
"I could not be happier."
Joanie M
2018
I kept waking up with severe headaches and was diagnosed with TMJ. My primary doctor recommended Dr Dolgos and I could not be happier. After following his TMJ program, my headaches are gone !
View on GoogleMartin Snyder
2018
I was referred to Dr. Dolgos due to a severe episode of TMJ that resulted in much jaw pain and an inability to open my mouth. After an extensive evaluation, a treatment plan was developed, which gave me hope my condition would improve in time if i adhered to it.
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