What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism refers to the clenching and grinding of your teeth. While daytime and nighttime bruxism differ in certain ways, both can lead to the same complications: tooth damage, jaw strain, and TMJ symptoms. Through comprehensive dental care in Naples, FL, we focus on addressing bruxism at its source while restoring and protecting your smile.

What Causes Bruxism?

Bruxism can stem from several factors, but one of the most common is TMJ disorder (TMD). When your bite and jaw joints are out of alignment, the muscles strain to find balance, often clenching the jaw shut in the process.

Other possible contributors include:

  • Stress or tension
  • Lifestyle habits, such as heavy exercise or stimulant use
  • Sleep apnea, which may trigger nighttime jaw clenching in some patients

Bruxism and TMJ Symptoms

Many people don’t realize they grind their teeth until someone else notices it. Other warning signs can include:

  • Worn, chipped, or cracked teeth
  • Sensitive teeth or thinning enamel
  • Jaw soreness, tightness, or pain
  • Headaches, especially in the morning
  • Neck and facial pain
  • Jaw popping, clicking, or locking (common TMJ symptoms)
  • Worn, chipped, or cracked teeth
  • Sensitive teeth or thinning enamel
  • Jaw soreness, tightness, or pain
  • Headaches, especially in the morning
  • Neck and facial pain
  • Jaw popping, clicking, or locking (common TMJ symptoms)

If left untreated, bruxism can cause severe tooth damage and worsen TMJ, creating a cycle of pain and dysfunction.

Complications of Bruxism

The constant force of grinding can wear teeth down much faster than chewing food ever would. Untreated, it can destroy enamel, fracture restorations, and eventually require full mouth reconstruction.

Bruxism also strains the muscles and joints, leading to persistent pain in the head, face, and neck. Because bruxism and TMJ often feed into each other, effective treatment is crucial to break the cycle and protect your long-term oral health.

Dental Treatment for Bruxism and TMJ

Our dentists offer solutions that both relieve pressure on the teeth and repair damage caused by clenching and grinding:

  • Custom Night Guard: A dentist-made night guard cushions your teeth, preventing wear, fractures, and jaw strain during sleep.
  • Restorative Dentistry: If grinding has already damaged your teeth, restorative treatments such as crowns, inlays, or onlays can rebuild strength and restore appearance.
  • Bite Adjustment: When a misaligned bite contributes to bruxism, your dentist may recommend selective reshaping of biting surfaces or orthodontic options to balance your bite.
  • Oral Appliance Therapy: For patients whose bruxism is linked to sleep apnea, a dentist trained in dental sleep medicine may prescribe a small oral appliance that keeps the airway open while also protecting teeth.

Get Treatment for Bruxism in Naples

If you’re struggling with daytime or nighttime teeth grinding, Massa Dental Center can help you address the root cause, repair damage, and restore comfort.

Call us today at (239) 597-7333 to request an appointment at our office in Naples, FL.