Dr. Joyce Kim is a highly trained, trusted dentist in Williamsport, PA. Dr. Kim offers comprehensive, personalized solutions for patients who have experienced teeth grinding (bruxism). Repeatedly grinding your teeth can lead to worn, damaged teeth and other complex dental concerns.
Although there is not one specific reason for teeth grinding, one of the most common causes is stress. Teeth grinding can also be caused by Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). A complex bite disorder with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can also cause teeth grinding. Most patients who grind their teeth don’t even realize they grind their teeth until they visit the dentist or begin to experience tooth damage.
Dr. Kim offers comprehensive dental treatment options for patients who grind their teeth. During your routine dental exam, Dr. Kim can examine the teeth and examine them for signs of grinding. We encourage our patients to visit our Williamsport dental office for the dental care they need to restore their smiles.
Treatment For Teeth Grinding
Dr. Kim can identify the root cause of bruxism with a thorough examination and discussing possible symptoms you may be experiencing. This enables us to recommend a plan of treatment that can provide comfortable, lasting results and restore oral health. For many, teeth grinding is the natural reaction to perceived stress, but it can also be the result of an imbalance in the bite.
Athletes can also be unaware of teeth grinding when playing intensely. If left untreated, teeth grinding can lead to worn, damaged teeth and may increase your risk of developing cavities and tooth decay. Patients who grind their teeth may experience one or more of these symptoms.
- Facial pain
- Worn teeth
- Frequent headaches (especially in the morning)
- Chipped, fractured, or broken teeth
- Clicking or popping when moving the jaw
- Earaches and neck pain
- Jaw pain and tenderness
- Locked jaw
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please inform us on your next visit. Dr. Kim can perform a full comprehensive exam and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your needs. The type of treatment you receive will depend on the underlying cause of bruxism and the amount of damage the teeth have sustained.
- Oral sleep appliances are used to prevent the teeth from grinding while you sleep. Dr. Kim can create custom-designed nightguards that help realign the jaw and prevent the teeth from grinding.
- Restorative dentistry can help restore function and health to damaged teeth. At Loyalsock we offer a full range of restorative dentistry solutions to improve your smile.
- Orthodontics can be used if the cause for teeth grinding is crooked or misaligned teeth. Dr. Kim is a Williamsport Invisalign provider. Invisalign is a set of clear, removable aligners that gradually straighten crooked or misaligned teeth.
Teeth Grinding FAQs
Teeth grinding can have serious consequences for oral health. Read the answers to these commonly asked questions to learn more.
What happens if teeth grinding goes untreated?
Progressive teeth grinding can cause serious damage to your teeth. The enamel is worn down, and your teeth may crack or break. Pain may be experienced in the jaw and throughout your face and ears. TMJ is often a long-term consequence of teeth grinding. You may have problems with jaw function, and it may pop or click. It’s important to take care of chronic grinding sooner rather than later.
How can I tell if I’m grinding my teeth?
Teeth grinding is often subconscious, and you may not realize you do it. It’s important to recognize the signs, though. Look for unusual wear and tear or sensitivity in your teeth that’s out of the ordinary. If you have a partner, they may be able to hear you grinding your teeth in your sleep. Pain in the jaw and face may also be a sign, especially when you wake up.
Is nighttime teeth grinding different from daytime grinding?
Yes, nighttime bruxism and daytime bruxism have different triggers and characteristics. Sleep bruxism is usually subconscious and more difficult to control, while awake bruxism is often stress-related and occurs during periods of focus or anxiety. Both can cause similar damage and discomfort, but treatment may vary depending on the type. Identifying when it happens is important for proper management.
What damage can teeth grinding cause?
Teeth grinding can lead to worn enamel, chipped or broken teeth, gum recession, and increased tooth sensitivity. It may also cause damage to dental restorations such as crowns or fillings. Long-term bruxism can strain the TMJ, leading to jaw pain, dysfunction, and chronic headaches. Left untreated, the damage may require complex dental repair.
Can teeth grinding be cured?
While there is no universal cure for bruxism, many people find effective relief through consistent treatment and lifestyle changes. Addressing underlying causes like stress, sleep disorders, or bite issues can significantly reduce or eliminate grinding. With proper care, long-term damage can be prevented. The goal is to manage symptoms and protect the teeth and jaw.
What is a night guard, and how does it help?
A night guard is a custom-made dental appliance that fits over your teeth to prevent grinding while you sleep. It acts as a protective barrier, absorbing the pressure from clenching and grinding. Night guards help preserve your tooth structure and reduce strain on the jaw muscles and joints. Over-the-counter versions are available, but custom guards offer a better fit and greater comfort.
Request An Appointment
Dr. Kim is a trusted dentist in Williamsport, PA who is dedicated to improving patient smiles. Dr. Kim and our dental care team deliver personalized solutions for complex dental concerns. If you suspect you are experiencing teeth grinding or you have not visited the dentist recently, visit Loyalsock Dental in Williamsport, PA.