Bruxism Treatment in Southwest Houston
Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or sensitive teeth? You may be grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep — a condition known as bruxism. At Griffith Dental Associates, we offer custom bruxism treatment to relieve discomfort, protect your teeth, and improve your sleep quality. Our Southwest Houston dental office serves patients in Fondren Southwest, Sharpstown, Gulfton, Bellaire, and surrounding areas with personalized, noninvasive solutions.
If left untreated, bruxism can lead to enamel erosion, cracked teeth, and chronic jaw disorders. Fortunately, with early diagnosis and proper care, long-term damage can be prevented.
.jpeg)
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, most often during sleep. While occasional clenching may not cause problems, persistent bruxism can strain the jaw muscles, wear down enamel, and disrupt normal bite alignment.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Waking up with sore jaws or tension headaches
- Clicking or popping in the jaw joint (TMJ)
- Tooth sensitivity without signs of decay
- Flattened, chipped, or worn-down teeth
- Disrupted sleep patterns or snoring
If you’re noticing these symptoms, we recommend starting with a comprehensive evaluation. You can learn more about what that involves on our Cleanings and Exams page.
Custom Night Guards for Bruxism Relief
At Griffith Dental Associates, our primary treatment for bruxism is a custom-made night guard. This device is worn while you sleep and serves as a barrier between the upper and lower teeth. Unlike over-the-counter options, our guards are made from high-quality materials and precisely molded to fit your bite.
Benefits of a custom night guard include:
- Reduces strain on jaw muscles and TMJ
- Prevents enamel wear and tooth fractures
- Minimizes morning headaches and jaw pain
- Protects dental restorations such as fillings and crowns
- Improves overall sleep comfort and quality
For patients who also experience related complications, such as snoring or disrupted breathing, we may evaluate your need for sleep apnea treatment as part of our holistic approach.
Personalized and Preventive Care
Our focus is not just on treating symptoms but on understanding the root causes of bruxism. Stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, and bite misalignment can all contribute to grinding and clenching. During your visit, Dr. Griffith will take the time to assess your symptoms, review lifestyle factors, and develop a care plan that supports long-term relief.
We also emphasize the role of preventive dentistry in avoiding damage from bruxism. By keeping up with regular checkups and addressing any early signs of wear or sensitivity, we can protect your smile before more serious issues arise. Visit our General Dentistry page to see how preventive care supports overall dental wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
We focus on prevention, whole-person wellness, and long-term relationships. Our care is designed to support not just oral health, but overall well-being.
Still have questions?
What causes bruxism?
Bruxism can result from multiple factors, including stress, sleep disorders, misaligned teeth, or certain medications. Identifying the underlying cause helps us recommend the most effective treatment plan.
Can bruxism go away on its own?
In some mild cases, especially in children, bruxism may resolve without treatment. However, persistent adult bruxism typically requires intervention to prevent long-term damage.
Will a night guard stop my grinding?
A night guard won’t stop the grinding itself, but it does protect your teeth from the harmful effects. It also reduces jaw strain and helps manage symptoms like headaches and sensitivity.
How long does it take to get a custom night guard?
After your evaluation, we’ll take impressions and create a guard that fits your bite precisely. Most patients receive their custom appliance within 1 to 2 weeks.
Is a night guard covered by dental insurance?
Many PPO dental plans provide partial coverage for custom night guards, especially when prescribed for bruxism. We’ll help you navigate your benefits and provide an estimate.
Schedule a Bruxism Consultation
If you're experiencing jaw discomfort, tooth sensitivity, or nighttime grinding, schedule a consultation at Griffith Dental Associates. We provide expert bruxism treatment in Southwest Houston with a focus on prevention, comfort, and long-term relief.
Call us at (713) 523-1666 or request your appointment online. Our office serves patients throughout Fondren Southwest, Sharpstown, Gulfton, Bellaire, and nearby neighborhoods with comprehensive care you can trust.