Teeth clenching and grinding treatments to protect the smile from damage.

If you notice during the day that you are clenching your teeth involuntarily, or if your sleeping partner has reported that you are grinding your teeth in your sleep, you may be dealing with a dental condition known as bruxism. Bruxism is very common, affecting both children and adults. At Libertyville Dental Associates of Libertyville, Illinois, we work with patients diagnosed with this condition and provide them with solutions to consider.

How do I know if I have bruxism?

Bruxism often goes unnoticed because most people only experience mild symptoms such as a dull headache or slight jaw pain. However, if it is left untreated, bruxism can lead to tooth damage, temporomandibular joint disorder, and other oral health issues. 

If you are wondering if you have bruxism, look out for common signs such as:

  • Teeth grinding or clenching during the day or night
  • Jaw pain or stiffness
  • Facial pain
  • Headaches or earaches
  • Worn down teeth
  • Shifting teeth
  • Increased tooth sensitivity

What are my treatment options for bruxism?

At Libertyville Dental Associates, we offer various treatments to help manage and treat bruxism. These may include:

  • Custom nightguards. Wearing a custom-fit nightguard can protect your teeth from further damage caused by grinding and clenching.
  • Dental crowns or veneers. If you have damaged teeth due to bruxism, we may recommend dental crowns or veneers to restore their appearance and function.
  • Stress management techniques. Since stress is a common cause of bruxism, stress management techniques such as therapy or meditation can help reduce symptoms.
  • Medications. In severe cases, your dental provider may refer you to another medical professional who may be able to prescribe muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety medication to help alleviate the symptoms of bruxism.

Find a solution to bruxism and protect your smile!

Tooth Staining and Removal with Specialized Dental Cleaning and Polishing 

At Libertyville Dental Associates of Libertyville, Illinois, our dental team can assist with many dental concerns that can arise with time–including problems such as clenching and grinding of the teeth.

If you live in the community and want to work with our providers to get a proper diagnosis and discuss a possible treatment plan, we invite you to call our office at (847) 349-4306.

The office is conveniently located at 1641 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite 3, and is open to new patients.