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Teeth Grinding and Bruxism Treatment Downtown Portland, OR Clenching your jaw during a stressful meeting is one thing. Waking up with a dull headache and sore teeth every single morning is another. For many patients at West End Dental, that recurring discomfort is the first clue that something is happening overnight that they can't control or even remember. Reach out to us at (503) 446-2957 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your smile. What Is Bruxism and Why Does It Matter?Bruxism is the medical term for chronic teeth grinding or clenching, and it often happens without the person realizing it's occurring. It can take place during the day, but it's most common at night, driven by factors like stress, misaligned bites, sleep disorders, or certain medications. Because the grinding happens involuntarily, many people don't know they have it until a dentist spots the warning signs or a partner mentions hearing it at night. Left untreated, bruxism can lead to far more than just a sore jaw. The repeated pressure and friction can wear down enamel, fracture teeth, loosen restorations, and contribute to chronic jaw pain or headaches. Over time, this added strain can affect the jaw joint itself, sometimes resulting in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Identifying and addressing bruxism early helps protect both the health of the teeth and the long-term function of the jaw. Common Signs and Symptoms of Teeth GrindingBruxism can be subtle, especially in its early stages, which is why many patients are surprised when a dentist points it out during a routine exam. Common signs include:
Some patients also notice indentations along the tongue or the inside of the cheek, which can be another sign that clenching is occurring regularly. Because these symptoms can develop gradually, regular dental visits play an important role in catching bruxism before it leads to more significant damage.  Custom Night Guards vs. Store-Bought OptionsOnce bruxism is diagnosed, a night guard is one of the most effective and widely recommended forms of protection. A night guard creates a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing the force of grinding and clenching so the teeth themselves aren't bearing the brunt of the pressure. Patients often start by trying an over-the-counter option from a pharmacy, and while these can offer some short-term relief, they come with real limitations. Store-bought guards are made from generic molds, which means they rarely fit precisely. A loose or bulky fit can be uncomfortable, may not stay in place overnight, and in some cases can even encourage more clenching as the jaw tries to find a stable bite. A custom night guard, by contrast, is fabricated from a precise impression of the patient's own teeth. This results in a snug, comfortable fit that's far more effective at distributing bite force evenly and protecting enamel from wear. Custom guards are also built from more durable materials designed to hold up to nightly use over the long term, making them a worthwhile investment for patients dealing with moderate to severe teeth grinding. Advanced Bruxism Treatment OptionsFor some patients, a night guard alone may not fully resolve the underlying cause of their bruxism. When grinding is linked to bite misalignment, jaw joint dysfunction, or chronic stress, a more comprehensive treatment plan may be recommended. Bite adjustments, sometimes called occlusal equilibration, can help correct alignment issues that contribute to teeth grinding. For patients experiencing TMJ-related symptoms, treatments aimed at relaxing the jaw muscles and reducing joint strain may be incorporated alongside a night guard. In cases where stress is a significant factor, the dentist may also recommend behavioral strategies or coordination with a physician to address the root cause rather than just the symptoms. Because bruxism can stem from a combination of physical and lifestyle factors, treatment is rarely one-size-fits-all. A thorough evaluation helps determine whether a night guard alone is sufficient or whether additional steps are needed to protect the teeth and relieve discomfort long term. Protect Your Smile From the Effects of BruxismTeeth grinding doesn't have to mean a future of worn enamel, cracked teeth, or chronic jaw pain. If you're noticing morning headaches, jaw soreness, or visible wear on your teeth, it may be time to talk with a teeth grinding dentist who can properly diagnose the issue and recommend the right path forward. Our Portland dentists are experienced in treating bruxism and can evaluate your bite, and determine whether a custom night guard is right for you. From there, we will build a treatment plan suited to your specific needs. |
WE TREAT OUR PATIENTS WITH RESPECT We believe in educating patients about their treatment options and listening to their questions and concerns.WE BELIEVE IN HEALTHY TEETH FIRST We focus on prevention so that you keep your smile healthy. We provide excellent comfortable care for all procedures.WE'RE HERE FOR YOU! Schedule your visit today for cleaning, treatment, or consultation. |
  
 West End Dental
833 SW 11th Ave Suite 300 Portland, OR 97205   |
