Do you wake up with headaches or a sore jaw? If so, it may be a result of tooth grinding or clenching (bruxism). Bruxism can cause several painful side effects, and it can damage your teeth and oral health. To help protect your mouth, Dr. Shelly Montes of Montes Periodontics & Implant Dentistry offers dental work to align your teeth, as well as splints and mouth guards to protect your teeth. Depending on your situation, our doctor will help you know which treatment is right for you. If you suffer from teeth grinding in Cumming, Georgia, we welcome you to contact us today at 770-781-3685 and schedule your appointment.

Bruxism is a condition where you grind or clench your teeth, either consciously during the day or subconsciously during the night. In many cases, bruxism occurs while you are sleeping, causing many people to be unaware that they have it. Bruxism can lead to several painful and uncomfortable side effects, which can help our dentist determine whether you suffer from bruxism. Some of the most common signs of bruxism include:

  • Teeth clenching or grinding, which, in some cases, may be loud enough to wake your partner
  • Flattened, chipped, fractured, or loose teeth
  • Worn-down tooth enamel, sometimes exposing the inner layers of your tooth
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Fierce jaw pain or tired jaw muscles
  • Headaches that originate around the temples
  • Tissue damage on the inside of your cheek from chewing on it

If you notice any signs of bruxism, our dentist can perform a comprehensive and efficient examination to diagnose whether bruxism is the source of your pain. For patients who are diagnosed with bruxism, we offer several treatment plans, including night guards and other oral appliances. Our dentist will help you know which treatment is best for you based on the severity of your bruxism. We invite you to contact us today to learn more about bruxism and how we can help prevent teeth clenching and grinding. We are dedicated to providing the best possible care for your smile.