Bruxism, or the act of grinding the teeth, typically during sleep, can lead to oral conditions such as jaw pain, damaged teeth, and chronic headaches. At Lerner Lemongello Dentistry, Dr. Gerard J. Lemongello provides high-quality dental care to patients across South Florida seeking to improve their sleep, eliminate jaw pain, and reduce teeth grinding.
What Causes Bruxism?
Bruxism can be caused by a number of factors, including but not limited to stress, nervousness, mood disorders, genetic history, smoking, and even consuming alcohol or caffeine. These conditions can lead to restless sleep that prevents people from getting enough rest to function properly.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of Bruxism?
While many people grind their teeth at night, a common sign that you may be suffering from bruxism is if your symptoms are a consistent, almost daily condition. Symptoms of bruxism can include:
- Chipped teeth
- Facial pain
- Jaw pain
- Tension headaches
- Migraines
- Sensitive teeth
- Jaw locking
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Exhaustion
- Inability to sleep throughout the night
How Teeth Grinding Affects Your Daily Life
Teeth grinding doesn’t only occur at night, and its effects often linger well into your day. Chronic bruxism can lead to muscle tension, headaches, jaw soreness, and even broken or worn teeth. Over time, these issues can impact how you chew, speak, and smile, while also contributing to fatigue and difficulty concentrating.
Beyond the physical discomfort, untreated teeth grinding can affect your confidence and daily interactions. You may feel self-conscious about damaged teeth or experience ongoing frustration from interrupted sleep. At Lerner & Lemongello, our goal is not only to address the cause of your teeth grinding but to help you regain comfort, confidence, and peace of mind in your daily life.
How Does a Night Guard Treat Bruxism?
Will a Night Guard Affect My Breathing When I Sleep?
Many people think a night guard may obstruct their breathing while sleeping, but this should not be the case with a properly fitting night guard. Because your dentist will customize your night guard to fit your bite and teeth, it will provide optimal protection and should not interfere with your breathing.
Am I a Candidate for a Night Guard?
Ideal candidates for a night guard are those who grind their teeth at night and are constantly experiencing headaches, jaw pain, and fatigue from lack of proper sleep. Removable, washable, and easy to use, a night guard is a beneficial treatment that can be easily incorporated into most patients’ daily routines. If you suffer from sleep apnea, GERD, or a gastrointestinal reflux disorder, a night guard may not be the right treatment for you.
Beyond the Nightguard: Comprehensive Bruxism Solutions
While custom nightguards are one of the most effective treatments for teeth grinding, they’re just one part of a comprehensive care plan. At Lerner & Lemongello Dentistry, we evaluate every patient individually to understand what’s truly causing their bruxism. Depending on your needs, your personalized treatment plan may include:
- Bite adjustment or restorative care to correct alignment issues contributing to grinding
- Stress management recommendations for patients whose bruxism is linked to tension or anxiety
- Therapeutic options, such as Botox® for muscle relaxation (if clinically appropriate)
- Lifestyle guidance, including sleep habit adjustments or caffeine reduction
By addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes, we provide solutions that promote lasting comfort and healthier teeth.
What Technology Is Used By The Office?
The 3Shape Trios 4 scanner is a state-of-the-art dental tool that offers several benefits for dental treatments. More specifically, regarding TMJ and Bruxism treatments, the Trios 4 scanner captures highly accurate digital impressions of a patient’s teeth and oral structures. Patients no longer need to endure the discomfort of physical impression materials in their mouths, eliminating the need for messy traditional impressions. The scanner uses a wand-like device that captures digital images of the teeth quickly and painlessly. Additionally, the digital scanning process with the Trios 4 is considerably faster than traditional methods. The real-time visualization on the computer screen allows the dentist to assess the scan quality immediately, minimizing the need for retakes and reducing chair time for patients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Grinding
How Long Does It Take to Get a Custom Nightguard?
With digital scanning technology, creating your custom nightguard is a quick and comfortable process. Most patients receive their device within a few weeks of their initial consultation.
Will a Nightguard Stop My Headaches and Jaw Pain?
For many patients, yes. Custom nightguards reduce the pressure and strain that lead to tension headaches and jaw discomfort, providing noticeable relief within days or weeks.
Is Teeth Grinding Related to Stress?
Stress is one of the most common causes of teeth grinding. Managing emotional tension, combined with professional dental care, can significantly reduce grinding and its painful side effects.
Can Teeth Grinding Damage My Smile Permanently?
Yes, prolonged grinding can wear down enamel, chip teeth, and strain your jaw joints. Early dental intervention prevents permanent damage and helps preserve your natural teeth.
Why Choose Dr. Gerard J. Lemongello for Bruxism Treatment?
With more than three decades of experience, Dr. Gerard J. Lemongello Jr. brings exceptional skill and artistry to every patient he treats. A graduate of the University of Florida College of Dentistry, Dr. Lemongello focuses on cosmetic, restorative, and rehabilitative dentistry with an emphasis on precision and patient comfort. He is an accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and a senior clinical instructor at NYU’s Rosenthal Institute, where he teaches advanced aesthetic techniques to other dentists.
Recognized for his leadership and dedication to continuing education, Dr. Lemongello combines proven expertise with the latest technology to deliver personalized, effective bruxism treatment. Patients trust his compassionate approach and commitment to achieving healthy, confident smiles that look as good as they feel.
Schedule a Consultation in Palm Beach Gardens, FL Today
If you are ready to stop teeth grinding for good, it’s time to seek treatment at Lerner Lemongello Dentistry today. Click here to schedule your virtual consultation, or contact us at (561) 627-9000 to reach a team member at our Palm Beach Gardens location. We are proud to serve patients in the South Florida area.