Putting the brakes on damaging bruxism (teeth grinding)

Clenching the teeth and jaws is a natural response to stress; however, it can also be incredibly harmful to your oral health and overall well-being. The good news is that individuals and their families in Aliso Viejo, California, have highly trusted and advanced bruxism treatment nearby! Advanced Dental is pleased to protect the teeth and restorations from damage caused by the effects of chronic, untreated bruxism (teeth grinding) and to prevent complications that transcend the health and condition of the natural tooth structure and dental work.

Know the signs

During regular checkups, Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula often spots the telltale signs of chronic teeth grinding. This condition may go unnoticed because individuals tend to unknowingly grind their teeth during sleep. Since they are at rest, they are unaware of this incredibly destructive behavior. Yet, they may have unexplained health complaints and dental concerns. Potential trouble signs include:

  • Worn tooth enamel
  • Prematurely worn or damaged fillings, crowns, and other restorations
  • Radiating facial and jaw pain
  • Chronic tension headaches or migraines
  • Frequent earaches and tinnitus
  • Poor sleep, never feeling refreshed no matter how long the rest

The latter symptoms on this list are also associated with TMJDs (temporomandibular joint disorders). These disorders arise due to stress placed on the jaw joints and their connected soft and hard tissues. So, the effects of bruxism are far-reaching and require prompt and effective treatment to prevent those symptoms from potentially getting worse or occurring more frequently.

Putting the brakes on bruxism

“Damage limitation” is the first step. Dr. Tiruveedula may custom design a special oral appliance, a “nightguard” or splint, that slips into your mouth and is worn while you sleep. These appliances help cushion the blow to your teeth, jaw joints, and other tissues from chronic bruxism behaviors. In doing so, future or further damage is avoided, and our patients experience symptom relief.

As partners in your oral health and overall wellness, Advanced Dental also works with you to resolve the underlying cause of bruxism. By identifying potential triggers like stress and muscle tension, we can recommend exercises to strengthen the jaw muscles and joints and relaxation techniques. 

We encourage you to wake up to potential signs of bruxism and contact our office in Aliso Viejo, CA, if any of the above symptoms resonate with you. If you are due for a checkup, schedule one today by calling us at (949) 289-9993.

Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula

Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula

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Dr. Chitra Tiruveedula has been practicing dentistry for over 20 years. After advanced training at Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, she relocated to Orange County, CA in 2015. Dr. Chitra is a member of the American Dental Association and California Dental Association. Committed to continuous education, she provides top-quality dental services using the latest advancements.

Dr. Joseph C. Yang

Dr. Joseph C. Yang

Dr. Joseph C. Yang has over 30 years of dental practice experience. He earned his B.S. from Washington University in St. Louis, MO, and his D.D.S. from the University of Illinois, Chicago. He then had a distinguished 30-year career as a U.S. Naval Dental Officer, including a residency in Periodontology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Dr. Yang is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a member of the American Dental Association and American Academy of Periodontology. As a board-certified Periodontist, he has performed thousands of successful periodontal and implant procedures. He is also a renowned lecturer and trainer in the latest implant and periodontal techniques worldwide.