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
Staff was very friendly and professional. The procedure was quick and relatively painless (for a procedure that involves cutting into the gums around a tooth). Staff took every precaution to ensure nothing went wrong, and despite how nervous some of these precautions made me, I appreciate them in hindsight.
- Christopher W
Patient Review
I completed a gum graft which was successful and without complication. Dr. Mize and his staff were skilled and professional in their work. As a patient, the process was without discomfort and made easy by their attentiveness during the procedure and afterwards. I highly recommend Sunset Periodontics.
- john r
Patient Review
The laser therapy was essentially painless. Easy to follow instructions after the procedure. Good results.
- Gwen D
Patient Review
No one wants to have these types of procedures, but I honestly have had no pain and it was as pleasant as it could have possibly have been. Dr. Mize called the night of the surgery to check on me and his assistant called yesterday---just to check. I have his cell number----that's professionalism!
- Anne J
Patient Review
This was my first (and hopefully, my only) implant and bone graft procedure. I found it to be a much easier experience than I would have ever anticipated. The doctor and staff were well-organized and they eased me comfortably, and pretty much painlessly, through the process step by step. Their follow-up phone calls and chairside attitudes were professional, yet personable. From the moment I was greeted at the door each time until I walked out the door, I felt comfortable and confident in their abilities and their demeanor.
- Bonnie H
Patient Review
Professional knowledgable very kind very courteous pleasant as a dental office could possibly be
- Margaret B
Patient Review
Excellent service, as always. No wait time. Friendly and professional staff.
- Cathy L
Patient Review
Thus far both my wife and I have been satisfied with the services provided!
- Stanley T
Patient Review
The examination of my gums was helpful and productive, correctly diagnosing the issue and resolving it. Staff and the doctor were friendly and helpful.
- Billy M
Patient Review
I am very satisfied with Sunset Periodontics.
- Judy H
Patient Review
Everything at Sunset Periodontal is most excellent. I would heartily recommend this dental clinic to anyone seeking first-rate service.
- Jacob R
Patient Review
Great team!
- Bert P
Patient Review
Awesome! Awesome! Awesome! I would highly recommend Sunset Periodontics. Everyone is friendly,caring and very knowledgeable. They explain every procedure fully, make you extremely comfortable during and after any procedures. Your not a number your family! This is a 10 star establishment.
- Toni C
Patient Review
Excellent Doctors and Staff. Always professional and friendly.
- Mike S
Patient Review
I greatly appreciate the support of toothpaste and toothbrushes for Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes. Thank you!
- Frances F
Patient Review
Great Service
- Archie P
Patient Review
Well run office.
- Barney B
Patient Review
Would recommend periodontist to anyone...competence and charisma. are two qualities required by me in seeking this level of dental care.
- Judy C
Patient Review
Having had many visits, I consider all of the personnel my friends. They are pleasant, accommodating, nice people to be around!
- MaryAnn S
Patient Review
Got a good deal and lots of help. They really helped with the pain and worked in tandem with my dentist.
- Henry P
