Bruxism Treatment in Oak Lawn, IL

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is a condition characterized by grinding or clenching the teeth, most often during sleep. It can also occur during the day, usually as a response to stress or anxiety. Many people are unaware they’re grinding until a partner mentions it, or until symptoms begin to appear.

Common signs of bruxism include:

• Waking up with jaw pain or tightness
• Frequent headaches or facial soreness
• Flattened or chipped teeth
• Tooth sensitivity or enamel erosion
• Clicking or discomfort in the jaw joint
• Damage to existing fillings, crowns, or veneers

Left untreated, bruxism can lead to long-term issues including tooth fractures, gum recession, and even TMJ disorders. That’s why early diagnosis and customized care are essential.

Custom Nightguards for Bruxism

The most common and effective treatment for bruxism is a custom-made nightguard, also known as an occlusal splint. This appliance is worn while you sleep and acts as a cushion between your upper and lower teeth, preventing contact and absorbing pressure from grinding.

Unlike store-bought guards, our custom nightguards are:

• Molded from impressions of your teeth for a precise fit
• Made from durable, comfortable materials
• Designed to reduce strain on your jaw joint and protect enamel
• Slim enough to speak or breathe normally while wearing

These guards are created in a dental lab and can last for several years with proper care. If you’ve had restorative work such as veneers, a nightguard is often recommended to protect your investment.

Addressing the Root Cause

While nightguards are essential for protection, we also look at the underlying causes of your bruxism. Dr. Smith may recommend a combination of strategies to help reduce grinding frequency and intensity, including:

• Bite adjustments or balancing to correct misalignment
• TMJ Therapy for joint stabilization
• Stress management techniques or behavioral coaching
• Evaluation for related conditions like sleep apnea

In some cases, we may also discuss whether airway-focused treatments like the VIDA or POD appliance are appropriate, especially if jaw tension or breathing issues are contributing factors.

Bruxism Treatment for Children and Teens

Bruxism isn’t limited to adults — children can also grind their teeth, particularly during growth or developmental phases. If your child is showing signs of clenching or you hear grinding at night, we’ll perform a full evaluation to determine whether early intervention is needed.

Our pediatric dentistry services include gentle assessments and conservative solutions for younger patients.