Bruxism Treatments
Bruxism is an oral parafunctional activity that commonly occurs in most people at some point in their lives. The two main characteristics of this condition are grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw. These actions usually occur during a person’s sleeping hours, but occasionally they occur during the day.
Bruxism is one of the most common known sleep disorders. Chewing is a neuromuscular activity controlled by a subconscious process, but more highly controlled by the brain. During sleep, the subconscious process may become active, while the higher control is inactive (asleep), resulting in bruxism. The most common symptoms are earaches, headaches, depression, eating disorders, anxiety, and chronic stress.
Why should I seek treatment for Bruxism?
- Gum recession. Bruxism is a leading cause of gum recession and tooth loss. Grinding can damage the soft tissue directly and lead to loose teeth and deep pockets where bacteria are able to colonize and decay the supporting bone.
- Facial pain. Grinding can eventually shorten and blunt the teeth. This can lead to muscle pain in the myofascial region and, in severe cases, incapacitating headaches.
- Occlusal trauma. The abnormal wear patterns on the occlusal (chewing) surfaces of the teeth can lead to fractures, which, if left untreated, may require restorative treatment at a later time.
- Arthritis. In the most severe cases, bruxism can eventually lead to painful arthritis in the temporomandibular (TMJ) joints that allow the jaw to open and close smoothly.
Treatment Options
Though there is no known cure for bruxism, there are a variety of devices and services available through our office to help treat bruxism:
- Mouthguards. An acrylic mouthguard can be designed from teeth impressions to minimize the abrasive grinding action during normal sleep. Mouthguards must be worn on a long-term basis to help prevent tooth damage.
Sunset Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Patient Review
Visit was very professional and the staff was very pleasant.
- Richard G
Patient Review
Dr Mize and the staff at Sunset Periodontics are great. I did not feel rushed during my initial consultation and all my questions were answered. At the time of my gum graft procedure I felt no pain thanks to the IV sedation. After the procedure, I felt no pain at my palate "donor" site and only minimal discomfort at my graft site. Dr Mize himself called me the evening of the procedure to check on me. The next day, I received a "feel better" card in the mail from the practice. The personal touches made me feel special.
- Randy C
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I enjoyed my visit and everything went well.
- Clarence B
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Dr. Mize and his staff did an excellent job with me during my laser procedure. I really appreciate how they care for you after you go home. Dr. Mize called to check to make sure I was alright. The have a great staff.
- Robert G
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I have never been left waiting for my appointment. Friendly, uplifting and comforting environment.
- Fern P
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Excellent service
- Janet H
Patient Review
Dr. Mize recommended that I have Lazer Surgery to correct a problem that I was having with my gum. Since I already had extreme "White Coat Syndrom", I was pretty terrified. Upon arriving at the office the day of the surgery I was greeted by Dr. Mize's very caring and reassuring staff. They made me feel very comfortable, even though I was still quite frightened. When Dr. Mize came into the room he gave off a quiet confidence that allowed me to become calm for the duration of the surgery. He and his staff had told me at my pre-surgery visit that I should not worry, the procedure would be easy and painless. They were right, I experienced no pain. Dr. Mize even called me that evening after the surgery to make sure I was ok. Dr. Mize is a wonderful doctor and his entire staff is pretty great too.
- Connie C
Patient Review
I came in for an evaluation and the Dr. spent time with my husband and I and I never felt as if he was in a hurry nor did he try to rush us. He answered all questions and calmed me down with his answers. I felt he knew his business and felt comfortable that he would be able to help me.
- Mary G
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nice to deal with, efficient, skilled, good results
- julian s
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The staff and doctor Mize are very professional and friendly. I was informed of the procedure and what would be done before my procedure started.
- Tammy H
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Good visit.
- Gretchen P
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Everyone will go out of their way to make sure you are as comfortable as possible before, during and after your procedure. All of your questions will be answered and any fears of dental work addressed.
- Joni B
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Very relaxing atmosphere
- Mary M
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Very nice people
- Judy A
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Will continue with this practise even though we now live 3 hours away
- Sharon G
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Very professional and caring office.
- JOYCE J
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A good visit. Very nice employees.
- TONY U
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Travis was great. My hygienist was fantastic as usual. Been going to this group for over twenty years, faces change, but the service doesn't.
- David M
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Loved being able to text questions to my doctor and getting quick responses. They always take good care of me.
- Anonymous
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I am always treated like family and Dr Mize is amazing. The ladies in the office are phenomenal! I had an appointment time wrong on my calendar and was caught in traffic and they graciously took me anyway! Love Sunset Peridontics!!
- Jean S