Bruxism/TMJ Treatment


Sometimes, the greatest threat to a patient’s smile is not plaque and tartar. It is a bite dysfunction that may lead to dental and oral issues such as tooth wear, jaw joint damage, and more. Bruxism (teeth-grinding) and TMJ disorder (jaw joint dysfunction) are common conditions that require individualized treatments to address them.

What Are They Exactly?

Bruxism is the name for consistent teeth-grinding that is caused by different factors. It frequently happens when a patient is sleeping. If left untreated, the consistent pressure and friction can wear down the teeth, making them weaker and at a higher risk for decay or damage. TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder is often associated with bruxism. It relates to damage of one or both of a patient’s jaw joints. Patients who experience TMJ may have trouble comfortably biting and chewing. They may also feel chronic unease in their jaw and face and popping or clicking sounds when they open and close their mouths.

How Are They Treated?

After we conduct a thorough examination of a patient’s oral cavity and determine the issue, we will recommend a personalized treatment plan to help correct the issue. Most often, this plan includes fitting the patient with a custom-designed oral appliance. This appliance can help protect teeth while sleeping, reducing the risk of teeth-grinding. For those experiencing TMJ, it can also help support the lower jaw so that it can rest and recover.

Schedule a Consultation with Us Today

Cleveland Family Dentistry can help if you feel that you are experiencing bruxism or TMJ. To schedule an appointment, call our office in Cleveland, TX, today at (281) 592-1234. We also proudly serve the residents of Kingwood, New Caney, Conroe, and all surrounding communities.