Teeth grinding should be treated promptly and effectively. Herndon, VA restorative dentist Dr. Mark Jefferies offers a complete range of treatment options for teeth grinding. Our team can assess your current condition and determine the underlying cause of your grinding. With the results of your evaluation, we can create a personalized treatment plan to prevent further teeth grinding and restore health and function to your smile.

tooth grinding herndon va dentist

If you would like to learn more about how to stop teeth grinding, visit our Herndon, VA dentist office. To schedule an appointment, call [new_patient_phone_span] or request an appointment online.

What Causes Tooth Grinding?

Teeth grinding can be caused by many different factors. It is imperative to discover the underlying cause of teeth grinding to treat it effectively.

Tooth grinding is often categorized in two ways: sleep bruxism and awake bruxism. Sleep bruxism occurs during sleep and can also be a sign of a sleep disorder. Awake bruxism occurs during while you’re awake and can be a sign of anxiety, stress, or tension.

Both children and adults can experience tooth grinding. If you notice your child grinds or clenches their teeth, it is important to discuss it with our team during their biannual dental exam. In many cases, children grow out of teeth grinding. However, it is still important to have your child evaluated by a dentist.

What Are The Symptoms of Teeth Grinding?

If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of teeth grinding, it is important to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Dr. Jefferies can work with you to find the source of your teeth grinding and recommend the best solution for you.

Common Signs of Teeth Grinding:

  • Headaches
  • Worn, fractured, or cracked teeth
  • Jaw soreness or pain
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Dull headache
  • Teeth grinding or clenching

How Do I Stop Grinding My Teeth?

In some cases, teeth grinding can be managed with stress management or daily jaw exercises. In more advanced cases, we may recommend oral appliance therapy to stop teeth grinding.

Dr. Jefferies will perform a full examination of your teeth and gums to check for any signs of damage. He may also assess the muscles surrounding the jaw to check for signs of tension and teeth grinding. An underlying bite issue can also lead to tooth grinding, so it is imperative to check the bite to determine if it is functioning properly.

The focus of your treatment will aim to stop teeth grinding, repair existing damage, and prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.

  • Oral appliance therapy: Nightguards
  • Minimizing stress
  • Jaw alignment exercises
  • Restorative Dentistry: Dental crowns, tooth bonding, or dental implants