Get Expert Relief for Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) at Laurel Smiles Dental Care
Are you waking up with jaw pain, headaches, or sensitive teeth? You may be one of the many Laurel residents affected by teeth grinding—often without realizing it. At Laurel Smiles Dental Care, our experienced team provides comprehensive teeth grinding (bruxism) solutions designed to quickly restore comfort, protect your teeth, and prevent long-term damage.
Why Choose Laurel Smiles Dental Care for Teeth Grinding Treatment?
- Locally Trusted: Serving Laurel since 1995, we’ve helped hundreds of neighbors find lasting relief from teeth grinding.
- Comprehensive Care: We not only repair damage from grinding but also prevent future issues with customized night guards and oral appliances.
- Personalized Solutions: Your treatment plan is tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle, and dental health.
What Are the Risks of Untreated Teeth Grinding?
Teeth grinding can silently wear down your teeth, making them more likely to chip, crack, or become sensitive. Over time, untreated bruxism can even lead to jaw joint problems (TMJ disorders), causing persistent pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing or speaking.
Don’t wait. The sooner you get help, the easier it is to prevent permanent damage and restore your peace of mind.
How We Treat Teeth Grinding in Laurel
- Night Guards & Oral Appliances: Comfortable, custom-fit devices worn at night to stop further grinding and protect your smile.
- Restorative Dentistry: Dental bonding for minor chips, and crowns for more severe damage—so your teeth look and function like new.
- TMJ Therapy: If your teeth grinding is linked to jaw pain or clicking, we offer solutions to realign your bite and reduce discomfort.
- Home Care Guidance: Simple exercises and stress-reduction tips that fit your lifestyle.
The Laurel Smiles Difference
Our team checks for signs of grinding at every regular cleaning and exam. If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth—or notice jaw pain, headaches, or worn teeth—let us know. We’ll listen to your concerns, explain your options, and help you choose the right solution.
Ready to protect your smile?
Book an Appointment or call us at 301-490-7007 to schedule your teeth grinding consultation at our convenient Laurel, MD office:
14440 Cherry Lane Ct Suite 209, Laurel, MD 20707
No referrals needed. Same-week appointments are often available—ask when you call!
TEETH GRINDING FAQS
HOW CAN I FIX THE EFFECTS OF TEETH GRINDING?
Teeth grinding causes many different effects that can greatly affect your oral health. The most common effect is worn teeth. We can help you address worn teeth with restorative dental services such as dental veneers, dental crowns, and tooth bonding. Teeth grinding can also lead to headaches, earaches, and facial pain. Your dentist in Laurel, MD, can create a treatment plan that can address your symptoms and provide solutions to fix the effects of teeth grinding.
WHY DO I GRIND MY TEETH?
Patients experiencing high amounts of stress or anxiety are more likely to grind their teeth during their sleep. If you notice yourself clenching your jaw throughout the day while experiencing stress, there is a high likelihood that you grind your teeth unconsciously at night as well.
CAN CORRECTING DENTAL ALIGNMENT OR BITE ISSUES HELP WITH TEETH GRINDING?
Absolutely—addressing misalignments in your bite or teeth can play a significant role in reducing teeth grinding. When your teeth don’t fit together properly, your jaw muscles may work harder to find a comfortable position, leading to increased grinding or clenching, especially at night.
Modern orthodontic treatments, such as Invisalign® clear aligners or traditional braces, can gently move your teeth into proper alignment. For patients with significant bite discrepancies, dental restorations like crowns or veneers may be recommended to restore the function and balance of your bite. In some cases, even minor adjustments to the biting surfaces of your teeth can help minimize grinding.
By correcting these underlying dental issues, you not only protect your teeth from further wear, but you may also reduce jaw discomfort and lessen the likelihood of developing TMJ symptoms. If you suspect your bite could be contributing to your teeth grinding, ask your dentist about evaluation and treatment options tailored to your needs.
ARE SLEEP DISORDERS OR GENETICS LINKED TO TEETH GRINDING?
Yes, both sleep disorders and genetics can play a role in teeth grinding. Conditions like sleep apnea are often associated with bruxism, meaning if you have a sleep disorder, your risk of grinding your teeth may be higher. Additionally, there’s evidence that teeth grinding can run in families, so your genetics might make you more susceptible. If you or a family member has a history of sleep issues or bruxism, it’s important to mention this during your dental visit.
When Are Medications Used for Teeth Grinding?
While our primary approach to treating teeth grinding focuses on oral appliances and restorative care, medications can sometimes play a supporting role for certain patients. In cases where teeth grinding is linked to ongoing stress, anxiety, or sleep disorders, your healthcare provider may recommend medications as part of a broader treatment plan.
Common medications that may be considered include:
- Muscle relaxants: Taken before bedtime, these can help reduce muscle tension and minimize grinding during sleep.
- Anti-anxiety medications: For patients whose teeth grinding is stress-related, these medications may help manage anxiety levels, leading to reduced clenching or grinding.
- Short-term options: Medications are generally used for a limited period, and usually in conjunction with other treatments like night guards or behavioral therapies.
Always consult with your dentist or physician before starting any new medication, as they’ll review potential side effects and ensure it’s appropriate for your specific situation. Medications are rarely the sole solution but may be beneficial as part of your customized treatment plan.
WHAT ARE SOME SYMPTOMS OF TEETH GRINDING?
Most patients who grind their teeth are unaware that they do this. However, be on the lookout for several symptoms of teeth grinding, including, facial pain, jaw soreness, headaches, earaches, and loose or worn-down teeth. Your dentist will check your teeth for signs of teeth grinding at your regular checkups and cleanings, though you should mention any of these symptoms to them as well.
WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS OR CONSIDERATIONS WHEN TAKING MEDICATION FOR BRUXISM?
If your dentist or physician recommends medication as part of your bruxism treatment, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects that could arise. Many medications, especially those prescribed to relax muscles or manage anxiety, can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, or changes in mood. In rare cases, you might also experience digestive upset or allergic reactions.
Medications are typically considered a short-term solution and are most effective when combined with other treatments, such as oral appliances or stress management techniques. Always discuss your health history, current medications, and any concerns with your healthcare provider before starting new prescriptions. This helps ensure your treatment strategy is both safe and effective.
HOW CAN I STOP TEETH GRINDING?
Our teeth grinding patients benefit greatly from our customized night guards, which help protect their teeth at night while they sleep. A night guard functions similarly to a sports mouthguard, in that it is a customized oral appliance that fits securely over your teeth. Our night guards also hold your jaw in a good resting position that benefits your airway and can reduce jaw pain as well.
Schedule An Appointment for Treatment for Teeth Grinding in Laurel, MD
Laurel Smiles Dental Care is home to experienced restorative dentists in Laurel, MD. If you suffer from teeth grinding, we will review the options to fix your teeth as well as review your options to treat the grinding. We offer many affordable restorative options for patients who have damaged teeth from grinding. Call our office today at 301-490-7007 or request an appointment online.