Bruxism

bruxismBruxism is the medical term for excessive tooth grinding and/or jaw clenching. Because our jaw muscles are capable of producing hundreds of pounds of force, continuous grinding and clenching can cause significant damage to teeth and jaws without dental intervention.

Unconscious grinding or clenching during waking hours is referred to as “awake bruxism.” Awake bruxing frequently occurs during times of focused concentration, stress, frustration, or anxiety. Simply being aware of clenching and grinding is often all that’s necessary to stop. Further possible treatments include jaw relaxation and stress-reduction techniques, mouthguards, and medication.

More commonly, bruxism takes place while sleeping. Because sleeping bruxers are unaware that repetitive grinding or clenching is taking place, sleep bruxism may lead to serious dental complications over time.

Bruxing can cause fractured and chipped teeth, worn tooth surfaces, and lost enamel. Major damage might require a crown or an extraction. Bruxing pressure can crack veneers, fillings, and crowns, and is linked to dental implant failure. Persistent bruxing can injure the temporomandibular joint, the complex joint which allows us to move our jaws in all directions.

Sleep bruxism has been linked to a variety of possible triggers, among them:

  • Stress and anxiety
  • Personality type
  • Cigarette smoking
  • Alcohol and caffeine consumption
  • Sleep apnea
  • Problems with bite or tooth alignment
  • Certain medications and medical conditions
  • A hereditary tendency in families

While there is no cure for sleep bruxism, your dentist can help you manage the condition. Relaxation techniques, lifestyle adjustments, medication, sleep disorder treatment, dental or medical care, for example, can help address the triggers for your bruxism.

And you can prevent further damage to your teeth and jaws with the use of a custom-fabricated nightguard. Nightguards fit over the teeth, preventing tooth injuries caused by grinding and reducing stress on your jaw.

Your dental team will take an impression of your teeth and a dental lab will create an appliance tailored to your specific needs. Because these nightguards are custom fitted by your dentist, they are more effective, more comfortable, and more durable than over the counter options.

There are symptoms which may indicate that you’re sleep bruxing before serious dental damage appears. These include:

  • Tooth pain or sensitivity
  • Enamel which appears flattened or worn
  • Chipped or cracked teeth and cusps
  • Loose teeth
  • Frequent headaches or facial pain
  • A sore jaw or clicking and popping noises when you move your jaw
  • Earaches or ringing in your ears
  • Waking up with tongue, mouth, or cheek injuries
  • Fatigue due to sleep disruption
  • Being overheard grinding your teeth

If you have any of these symptoms and suspect you might be grinding or clenching your teeth, consult your dentist right away. Prompt treatment can help maintain and protect your dental health.

Our Location

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-12:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

    Very friendly and Helpful

    I recently moved here from Green Bay where I had the same dentist for many years. He set the standard high for tooth care. We searched around this area and talked to patients from several dental offices to see what they had to say. The comments about Dr. Jamie at Two Rivers Family Dental were very good so we decided to give them a try. I came in with necessary dental work needing to be done and the normal amount of anxiety with it. I am happy to say we, "nailed it" with our choice. Dr. Jamie and her assistant Laurie could not be more thorough, personal and educational as she proceeds which helps me relax (somewhat-along with a little laughing gas)! The office from the minute you walk in till you leave is very friendly and helpful if I have any questions. She met the standard we were used to and I recommend her to everyone!!

    Sharon B. November 19th 2020

    Emergency Care

    I had an emergency for my tooth today. Two Rivers Family Dental got me in right away and the staff was fantastic!! Made me feel very comfortable! Thank you Dr. Hansen.

    Katie R. August 17th 2017

    "I can smile again"

    My teeth were in terrible shape and plus I did have one broken off ….I did not want to smile at all ….after Dr. Hansen finished fixing my teeth I can smile again... thank You Dr. Hansen and all your staff for helping me smile again.

    Joyce M. December 19th 2018

    Julie Knows Insurance

    Great dental hygienist in Tracy and fine dental work done by Dr. Hansen. Julie knows insurance better than anyone!

    Barb W. April 25th 2018

    Kind and Respectful

    I had recently got a check up and I needed a filing. They were kind and displayed the up most respectful manner in making my dental experience a positive one. I will continue to be a patient of The Two Rivers Family Dental.

    Rebecca M. Febuary 6th 2018