Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Providing Relief From Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is among the most common sleep disorders. Fortunately, those who struggle with chronic teeth grinding can find relief with some help from the team at Jeffrey A. Stratford-Jones. We help patients from across Santa Barbara and Goleta, CA, and we’re happy to consult with you and evaluate your condition. Our team has years of experience working with patients just like you, searching for relief from bruxism. We will make sure you understand the symptoms, risk factors, and numerous treatment options.
Why Am I Grinding My Teeth?
Unlike periodontal disease or tooth decay, doctors aren’t sure exactly what causes teeth grinding. However, many theorize that the condition results from a combination of anxiety, frustration, and tension. It may arise as a coping mechanism or from chewing activity during sleep. While we cannot say for sure why you’re grinding your teeth, we can identify some risk factors that may increase your chances of developing the condition. These risk factors include:
- Increased or excessive stress, frustration, or anger
- Aggressive or competitive personality
- Certain disorders, such as dementia, epilepsy, sleep apnea, and ADHD
- Medications, such as antidepressants
- Tobacco or use of recreational drugs
- Family history of bruxism
Explore Your Treatment Options
When you visit Jeffrey A. Stratford-Jones for teeth grinding, we may recommend one of a variety of treatments. While there is not a cure for this condition, many symptoms can be alleviated with regular use of the following treatments:
One of the most common treatment options, we ask that you wear mouthguards on a long-term basis to prevent tooth damage and TMJ pain. At our office, we'll take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-fit mouthguard.
This device is designed to prevent the grinding of rear molars. Like custom mouthguards, the NTI-tss® device will be fitted by a professional to ensure effectiveness.
BOTOX® isn't just for cosmetic concerns. This treatment may also be injected into the facial muscles, causing them to relax and alleviate many symptoms of bruxism.
Seek Prompt Treatment at Jeffrey A. Stratford-Jones
Although teeth grinding itself may not seem like a high-level concern, you should still seek treatment as soon as possible. The team at Jeffrey A. Stratford-Jones will work to ensure your condition does not worsen and cause extensive tooth damage. Left untreated, bruxism can result in gum recession, tooth loss, arthritis in the temporomandibular joint, and severe headaches. No matter how minor your teeth grinding may seem, be sure to make an appointment with our team in Santa Barbara, CA.