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Bruxism Treatment in Upper Marlboro, MD
Stop Grinding Your Teeth—Protect Your Smile & Jaw
Do you wake up with headaches, sore jaws, or sensitive teeth? You might be grinding your teeth at night—a condition known as bruxism. At Westphalia Dental Implant Center, we offer personalized bruxism treatment to stop the damage before it worsens.
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What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, most commonly during sleep. Over time, this can lead to:
- Worn or flattened teeth
- Chipped or cracked enamel
- Jaw tension and pain
- Headaches and earaches
- TMJ dysfunction or joint damage
Patients from Upper Marlboro, Clinton, Largo, and Camp Springs often don’t know they’re grinding until symptoms start affecting daily life—or their dentist sees visible wear.
Signs You May Have Nighttime Bruxism
- Morning jaw soreness or stiffness
- Dull headaches, especially after waking up
- Tooth sensitivity or visible enamel wear
- Clicking or popping jaw joints
- Partner hears grinding noises at night
- Broken fillings or chipped crowns
We detect bruxism during routine exams and often link it with TMJ disorders or stress-related tension.
How We Treat Bruxism
We customize treatment based on your symptoms and degree of damage. Options may include:
1. Custom Night Guard (Occlusal Guard)
A thin, clear oral appliance worn while you sleep. It cushions your teeth, protects enamel, and reduces pressure on your jaw joint. Learn more about our occlusal guards.
2. Bite Adjustment
If your teeth are misaligned, a minor occlusal adjustment can relieve the strain caused by uneven chewing forces.
3. Stress Management Guidance
We’ll help you identify jaw-clenching triggers and provide relaxation techniques to minimize unconscious tension.
4. TMJ Evaluation
If your grinding is accompanied by jaw pain or joint issues, we may recommend TMJ therapy to address the root cause.
5. Restorative Repair
If teeth have been damaged from bruxism, we can rebuild them with crowns, fillings, or bonding.
Why Treat Teeth Grinding?
Ignoring bruxism can lead to long-term dental damage and costly repairs. Treating it early prevents:
- Excessive enamel loss
- Cracked or broken restorations
- Chronic TMJ pain
- Altered bite and facial muscle tension
We’ve helped patients from District Heights, Forestville, and Capitol Heights protect their smiles and finally sleep without jaw tension.
What Causes Bruxism?
While the exact cause isn’t always clear, contributing factors often include:
- Stress and anxiety
- Misaligned teeth or bite
- Sleep disorders
- Medications
- Alcohol or caffeine use before bed
During your exam, we’ll identify the most likely triggers and build a treatment plan that works for your lifestyle.
Insurance & Payment Options
Bruxism treatment, such as night guards, may be partially covered by insurance—especially if damage or discomfort is documented. We’ll help you navigate the claims process and offer:
- Financing options through CareCredit and Proceed Finance
- 10% savings with our Smile Savings Plan
Transparent pricing with no surprise fees
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a night guard stop bruxism?
A night guard won’t stop the habit, but it protects your teeth from damage and reduces the pressure on your jaw. Many patients also experience symptom relief.
How long do custom night guards last?
With proper care, custom night guards can last 3–5 years or more. We’ll check yours at regular visits and let you know when it’s time for a replacement.
Is bruxism dangerous?
Yes—if left untreated, bruxism can lead to broken teeth, severe wear, jaw dysfunction, and costly dental repairs. Early intervention prevents long-term issues.
How is a custom guard different from store-bought ones?
Over-the-counter guards are bulky and one-size-fits-all. Custom guards are thinner, more comfortable, and designed to fit your bite perfectly.
What if my teeth are already damaged?
We offer full restorative care, including crowns, bonding, and implants, to repair and protect your smile after damage from grinding.
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Sleep Better & Smile Brighter
Let’s Treat the Grinding
If you're waking up sore, fatigued, or noticing changes in your teeth, don't ignore the signs of bruxism. We’ll help you sleep easier and protect your smile for the long term.