Bruxism is often referred to as “teeth grinding” and affects millions of people. Teeth grinding is an unconscious neuromuscular activity that most people do not realize they are doing. They grind their teeth in their sleep or even unconsciously while they are awake. Approximately 10-15% of Americans moderately to severely grind their teeth. This is one of the common dental concerns we treat in our Owing Mills office.
Dr. Ed Lazer can easily diagnose teeth grinding through a simple visual examination at his Owings Mills, MD dentist office. We provide non-invasive treatment options for bruxism. Learn more about teeth grinding.
Treatment for Teeth Grinding in Owings Mills, MD
There are a number of treatment options for people that have teeth grinding issues. The most important step in treatment is to stop the teeth grinding. Dr. Lazer recommends a night guard or mouthguard for grinding teeth. Your dentist makes these oral appliances from impressions of your teeth. They provide cushioning for the teeth to keep them from grinding against each other.
A night guard will prevent your teeth from wearing down and reduce the strain on your jaw. Even though they are more expensive than over the counter mouthguards, custom made mouthguards from a dentist specifically fit the patient’s teeth and jaw. They also consist of a thicker material, making them more durable.
Once the teeth grinding is under control, then Dr. Lazer will recommend treatment to correct the source of the problem. He will treat missing or misaligned teeth at his Owings Mills, MD dentist office. It is important that the patient takes the necessary steps to reduce stress and anxiety in their life to reduce the occurrences of teeth grinding.
Finally, Dr. Lazer will repair any damaged teeth from teeth grinding. Chronic teeth grinding can leave teeth worn, chipped or broken, and even affect the health of the gums. He offers many restorative procedures, such as:
If you have severe dental problems, your dentist may not be able to save the teeth, and they may require extraction.
Do teeth grow back after grinding?
Teeth do not grow back after grinding. The only way to avoid tooth loss is by wearing a nightguard that is specifically for teeth grinding and clenching protection.
Can teeth fall out from grinding?
Teeth do not fall out from grinding. Tooth enamel is hard and tough. Grinding only wears away the enamel, leaving the teeth with a thin layer of dentin and no protective covering. Teeth can wear down from grinding over time, but they will not fall out. The grinding process is more likely to cause cavities and gum disease than it is to cause teeth to fall out.
Causes of Teeth Grinding
Stress is the most common cause of teeth grinding. Stress can either be from environmental sources and/or stress in the occlusal system. When the teeth, jaw joints, and muscles aren’t working in harmony, it creates tension, which leads to facial pain, headaches, teeth grinding, and other problems. Other reasons people may grind their teeth include the following.
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Sleep disorders
- Abnormal bite
- Missing or misaligned teeth
- Parkinson’s or Huntington’s disease
- May be associated with alcohol or tobacco abuse
Since most people grind their teeth while sleeping, they may now know the damage they are causing. Teeth grinding can lead to many dental issues and side-effects, including:
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- Frequent morning headaches
- A broken dental filling or dental crown
- Loose teeth
- Daily migraines
- Sore or painful teeth
- Worn down teeth
- Chipped, cracked, or fractured teeth
- Pain in the jaw or face
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of the most commonly asked questions concerning teeth grinding.
How long does it take to see results after starting bruxism treatment?
Many people start feeling relief within a few days to a couple of weeks after using a nightguard or starting treatment. Jaw tension, headaches, or tooth sensitivity often improve first. Long-term results depend on consistency and addressing root causes like stress or bite issues. Regular follow-ups help fine-tune the treatment plan.
Can untreated bruxism affect my overall bite alignment or facial appearance over time?
Yes, untreated teeth grinding can change your bite and how your face looks. Over time, grinding wears down your teeth, which can shorten them and shift your bite. This may cause your face to look older or make your lower jaw look smaller. The jaw muscles can also get larger from overuse, making your jawline look wider or more square. Using a nightguard early on can help stop these changes and protect your smile.
Will insurance cover a custom nightguard or treatment for teeth grinding?
Some dental insurance plans cover custom nightguards if teeth grinding is diagnosed as a medical necessity. Coverage varies, and some policies may only cover part of the cost. It’s best to check with your insurance provider. Your dentist’s office can help with the paperwork. Keep in mind that over-the-counter guards are rarely covered.
Are there specific foods or drinks that make bruxism worse?
Yes, caffeine and alcohol can make bruxism worse by increasing jaw activity and muscle tension. Chewing gum or eating hard, chewy foods can also strain the jaw and trigger grinding. Limiting these can reduce symptoms, especially before bedtime. A soft-food diet during flare-ups may ease jaw discomfort.
Are there early warning signs of bruxism before noticeable damage occurs?
Yes, early signs include jaw tightness, morning headaches, tooth sensitivity, or sore facial muscles. You might also notice flattened or chipped tooth edges or hear grinding sounds during sleep. Catching these signs can prevent long-term damage. A dental exam can confirm if grinding is the cause.
Can children or teenagers develop teeth-grinding habits, too?
Yes, kids and teens can grind their teeth, especially during growth or stressful times. Most of them stop on their own as they get older. However, if grinding causes pain, worn teeth, or sleep trouble, treatment might be needed. We check for signs during regular visits and may suggest a night guard or monitoring. Taking care of it early helps prevent bigger problems later on.
Schedule A Dental Exam Today
If you are looking for a dentist who provides teeth grinding treatment in Baltimore and Owings Mills, MD, contact Dr. Lazer with Cosmetic & Advanced Dentistry. We gladly welcome new patients and out-of-town patients. Call us at (410) 697-6290 or request an appointment online today.