As many as 8% of adults and an estimated 50% of children suffer from grinding teeth during sleep. Fortunately for most of us, we don’t grind our teeth enough to cause any discomfort or long-term problems. But if you’re experiencing discomfort from grinding your teeth at night, here’s what you can do to find some relief and protect your teeth. If you are looking for bruxism treatment in Miami Gardens FL, we can help you.
Grinding teeth during sleep? See your dentist.
As part of your regular checkups, your dentist will check your teeth for signs of excess wear on the chewing surface. They may also ask you some questions about whether you’ve experienced any symptoms associated with bruxism and if your sleeping partner has ever made you aware of abnormal sleeping behaviors.
Seeing your dentist for regular checkups can do many things to help your cope with bruxism. If a dental issue arises from frequently grinding your teeth, they can treat it. Your dentist may also offer a custom mouthpiece that can be worn while sleeping to keep the teeth apart and help the jaw muscles to relax.
Practice healthy behaviors to promote good sleep
Abnormal sleeping patterns like waking and sleeping at irregular times, drinking caffeine later in the day, or not getting enough sleep can all cause you to grind your teeth at night.
If you’re struggling to adjust your sleeping patterns or don’t know how to start improving them, you may need to see a sleep specialist. A sleep specialist can study your sleeping behaviors and offer treatment of any disorders or conditions that make it challenging to have a restful sleep.
Reduce stress and find healthy ways to cope
Stress can also cause you to grind your teeth at night, so practicing healthy ways to cope with your stress might bring a dramatic improvement to your symptoms. Reducing stress can also help relieve head, neck, and jaw pain associated with bruxism.
You can reduce stress with regular exercise, prioritizing good sleep, meditation, eating healthier, and spending more time doing the things you enjoy. In some cases, your doctor may recommend the short-term use of antidepressants to help you manage your stress.
Medications that can help treat bruxism
Your dentist may recommend the use of botox to decrease the frequency and intensity of grinding at night. Many people report feeling noticeable improvements in their symptoms with botox treatments, and the treatment doesn’t cause any changes in your appearance. Only overactive muscles are targeted.
Some patients also find relief from taking muscle relaxers before bed. This can help keep the jaw relaxed while you’re asleep and prevent involuntary grinding. Ultimately, you should speak with your dentist about what medications may be right for you.
Bruxism treatment in Miami Gardens, FL
Find fast bruxism treatment in Miami Gardens, FL with the American Dental Center. Say goodbye to jaw pain, headaches, teeth pain, neck pain, and make sure you get a good night’s rest. Schedule an appointment and finally get relief from your bruxism symptoms.
