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Gabriela Garcia
Gabriela Garcia
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Salvador Jaimes
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Karin Westjohn
Karin Westjohn
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This is a shout out to say thank you to Dr. Gustavo, Perla, Maggie & and all the other Channel, Islands dentistry, people! The cap on my front tooth randomly fell off at 9:30 in the morning yesterday I was in shock and couldn’t talk without that tooth and didn’t understand how it happened so I went straight to the Ventura Office where I go and Perla got me in right away. I was so surprised Dr. Gustavo took care of me with x-rays explanation and a positive plan for treatment before I left a short time later Perla had run out to the elevator to catch me with a next day appointment at their Newberry Park office parentheses which was fun to visit. Dr. Gustavo is so gentle and kind and very much an expert at giving shots! I am now awaiting a new crown. Thank you so much everyone at Channel Islands dentistry! That means a lot to have a dentist nearby that you can really count on!
Tazer Face
Tazer Face
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Amazing work! Everyone was friendly and the dentist really explains everything in simple detail.
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Introduction

Clenching and Grinding

Grinding or clenching of teeth, a condition medically known as bruxism, can manifest either consciously or unconsciously. Many individuals may experience occasional bouts of grinding or clenching, which often pose no immediate harm. However, when this behavior becomes a regular occurrence, it can result in damage to oral tissues and give rise to various other oral health complications.

The motivations behind teeth grinding are not always straightforward and can differ from one patient to another. At Santa Paula Dentist – Channel Islands Family Dental Office, our dedicated experts diligently investigate the underlying factors contributing to bruxism, whether they are physical, psychological, or genetic in nature. We are committed to providing comprehensive care to address the root causes of teeth grinding and safeguard your dental well-being. Visit us today for a personalized assessment and tailored solutions.

Black man with clenched teeth doing dips

Bruxism is broadly classified into two types

Awake Bruxism:  clenching and grinding of teeth caused during the day while being awake. It is usually related to emotional issues, such as feeling anxious, stressed or angry.

Attractive asian woman awaking on the bed

Sleep Bruxism: On the other hand, when someone grind or clench their teeth while being asleep. Our specialist at Channel Islands family dental office, explains our patients since they asleep they are unaware of the condition, and an lead to jaw pains and other problems related to oral health. In some kids, grinding happens due to the improper alignment of upper and lower jaws. In some cases, it can happen as a response to teething or pain in the ear. In adult or young children, stress and anxiety is generally the cause for teeth grinding or jaw clenching.

Headache Problem
The man coughed and put his hand over his mouth and sat down on the bed.

Lifestyle habits such as smoking, drinking alcohol, recreational drugs or consuming a lot of caffeine can also cause night grinding or clenching.

Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea can also be one of the reasons for bruxism.

How to diagnose: Teeth grinding or jaw clenching usually happens during the sleep and is most likely noticed by parents or siblings. However, having a constant dull headache or sore jaw after waking up could be symptoms of bruxism. If you think you or someone in your family may be grinding their teeth in sleep, talk to your dentist. Dental specialist can examine you physically examine your mouth for any signs of bruxism such as tenderness in jaw and wear and tear to rule out other causes like ear infections.

Symptoms of clenching and grinding

Teeth grinding or clenching usually happens during sleep that makes it difficult for a patient to identify their symptoms. However, signs that you may look for includes:

  1. Disrupted sleep
  2. Headaches or facial pain after waking up
  3. Pain  in the ear
  4. Wear or enamel loss
  5. Painful or loose teeth
  6. Soreness in jaw muscles
  7. Tooth fracture by excessive pressure
  8. TMJ sounds like clicking or popping
  9. Pain while chewing
  10. Lock jaw
Clenching Apretar
Clenching Apretar
Clenching Apretar

Treatment and methods to prevent

The treatment for Clenching And Grinding of teeth at Santa Paula Dentist generally includes the use of night guards, a retainer-like instrument worn overnight, to prevent damage to the teeth and other oral tissues. Our Santa Paula Dentist experts are here to provide you with the best care and solutions for your clenching and grinding issues. While night guards won’t stop grinding or clenching, they are highly effective in reducing the symptoms and protecting your dental health.

Clenching and Grinding

Our dentists at Channel Islands Family Dental take different approaches to treat bruxism based on specific symptoms and stressors that include:

Medications: muscle relaxants can help relax the jaw muscles and prevent grinding.

Lifestyle modifications: stress management and relaxation training can be identified as a useful aid to help the patients reduce the symptoms and complications of bruxism.

Exercising In Nature

Other preventive methods include:

  • Avoid foods or drinks containing caffeine, cola or chocolate
  • Avoid alcohol
  • Do not chew on pens or anything that is not food
  • Be aware about chewing or grinding during the day. Try to stop yourself by keeping your lips together, with teeth apart and tongue behind the front teeth.
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