. Health Library - South Houston Oral, Facial and Implant Surgery Center

Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

Understanding Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)Bruxismo (rechinar los dientes)

Understanding Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Although teeth grinding (bruxism) may happen at any time, people often grind their teeth in their sleep. You may not even know you're doing it. The causes are not clear. Stress is one possible cause, but often the reason for the habit is not known.

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Damage Caused by Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding may cause:

  • Chipped enamel and cracked teeth

  • Flattened, grooved, worn-down teeth

  • Loosened teeth

  • Periodontal (gum) problems

If it goes untreated, bruxism may lead to jaw muscle and joint problems and even loss of your teeth.

Possible Treatments

Your dentist may suggest one or more of these treatments:

  • A mouth guard (plastic device that fits over your teeth) protects teeth from grinding damage. It's worn at the times when you're most likely to grind your teeth.

  • Bite adjustment (correcting the way your top teeth fit against your bottom teeth) can reduce chances of grinding if your bite is uneven.

  • Reducing stress may lessen grinding by relaxing your jaw muscles. Your dentist may suggest ways to reduce stress, like exercise.

  • Medication may be given to help relieve sore muscles or reduce stress.

Evaluating the Problem

Your dentist will examine your entire mouth and ask several questions. This evaluation helps confirm that you do grind your teeth. It may also help identify a possible cause of your teeth-grinding habit.

The Symptoms of Grinding

Symptoms like these may be a signal that you grind your teeth:

  • A sore, tired jaw

  • Sensitive teeth

  • Loose teeth

  • Dull headaches, earaches, or neck aches

  • Clicking sounds when you open your mouth

Date Last Reviewed: 2005-12-01T00:00:00-07:00

Date Last Modified: 2005-12-01T00:00:00-07:00

 

Discover the possibilities of noninvasive procedures from an oral surgeon. Call 281-412-0099 or use our convenient online Request an Appointment form.

What Our Clients Say About Us

My name Is Judith O. I had the pleasure to meet Dr. Luis Craig when I was having problems with my vision, my skin wouldn’t allow me to open my eyes or see peripherally completely. My Optometrist suggested I should have “bleph". I was referred to Dr Craig, an excellent person and a great surgeon. He performed my surgery, with no complications, and in a week nobody could tell I had anything done. Not even my Optometrist. She was happy, like me, with the outcome. My vision improved 100%. Thank you Dr Craig. May God bless you and your hands.
Sincerely, Judith, O

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Two Locations to Serve You!

2537 Houston Ave.
Pearland, TX 77581
Phone: 281-412-0099 Get Directions

4010 Vista Rd., Ste. B
Pasadena, TX 77504
Phone: 713-947-8832 Get Directions

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Luis T. Craig, DMD, is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and owner of South Houston Oral, Facial & Implant Center located at 2537 Houston Avenue, Pearland, TX and 4010 Vista Road, Suite B, Pasadena, TX. His practice can be reached by calling 713-947-8832.