Bruxism
Driftwood Dental Studio helps patients in Wilmington, NC who grind or clench their teeth, a condition called bruxism. It usually happens during sleep, so many people only find out when they wake with a sore jaw or headaches, or when we spot worn, chipped or cracked teeth at an exam. Left alone, grinding can wear teeth down, crack fillings and crowns, and damage dental implants. A custom-fitted nightguard is the most common way to protect your teeth.
Waking up with a sore jaw or headaches? Call (910) 834-8787 or request an appointment online.
Signs you may be grinding your teeth
- A sore or tired jaw when you wake up
- Morning headaches, earaches or facial pain
- Teeth that look flat, chipped, worn or shorter than they used to
- New sensitivity to hot or cold
- Cracked fillings or crowns
- A partner who hears grinding at night
What causes bruxism
Stress and anxiety are the most common triggers, and daytime tension often carries over into sleep. Sleep problems and a bite that does not line up well can also play a part, and often there is more than one cause.
How we treat teeth grinding
The most common treatment is a custom nightguard: a thin appliance made to fit your teeth that you wear while you sleep. It takes the force of grinding so your teeth, fillings, crowns and implants do not. We also repair damage that grinding has already caused, such as worn or chipped teeth or broken fillings, and we check for new wear at every exam.
Frequently asked questions about teeth grinding
Can grinding damage crowns or implants?
Yes. Grinding puts heavy force on crowns, bonding and dental implants. If you have any of these and grind your teeth, a nightguard helps them last.
Will a nightguard stop me from grinding?
A nightguard does not stop the habit itself, but it protects your teeth from the damage. Many patients also find their morning jaw soreness and headaches ease.
Is teeth grinding covered by insurance?
Some dental plans cover part of the cost of a nightguard. We are in-network with more than 30 dental insurance plans, including Delta Dental, Cigna, MetLife, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, Humana and Guardian. We check your benefits and give you a written estimate before treatment. See the full list on our Financial Information page.
Visit us
Driftwood Dental Studio is at 5225 Sigmon Rd, Suite 130, Wilmington, NC 28403, just off Market Street near Mayfaire. We are open Monday through Wednesday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Thursday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM; and Friday, 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Call (910) 834-8787 or request an appointment online.
