teeth grinding treatment in Eugene

Normal chewing results in brief intervals of contact between teeth. Under normal circumstances, your teeth should only contact for about 5 minutes each day. Slight amounts of wear over years of use is common.

Sometimes teeth develop a flattened, worn appearance. X-rays may show unusually thin layers of enamel as if sandpaper has been drawn across the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Daily chewing shouldn't erode the enamel so much.

At Mission Dental in Eugene, OR, we understand the discomfort and potential damage caused by teeth grinding and offer comprehensive treatment options to protect your oral health and improve your quality of life.

Call (541) 238-9878 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment and learn more about teeth grinding treatment in Eugene, OR.

You Don't Even Know

Some patients develop a subconscious habit of grinding their teeth, either during the day or at night. In many cases, the abrasive action occurs only during sleep, and for only a few seconds at a time. If you wake up with a sore jaw or a morning headache, chances are you are grinding your teeth during the night. In some patients, enlarged jaw muscles develop on the sides of the face from this nighttime grinding. These muscles are, ounce for ounce, the strongest in the body, which means they can do a lot of unnecessary damage.

How can I tell if I'm grinding my teeth at night?

Often, people are unaware they grind their teeth because it happens during sleep. However, there are several signs that may indicate bruxism. These include:

• Waking up with a sore jaw or headache.
• Experiencing tooth sensitivity or pain.
• Noticing wear facets or flattened surfaces on your teeth.
• Hearing clicking or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth.
• Your partner or family member telling you they hear you grinding your teeth at night.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to schedule an appointment with your dentist at Mission Dental for a comprehensive evaluation. We can accurately diagnose bruxism and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Avoiding Irreversible Damage

If you're waking up with a sore jaw or headaches, or you've noticed chips or flattening of your teeth, a consult with our doctors is recommended. The sooner the problem receives attention, the less damage there will be. Often a custom-fit night guard will eliminate the symptoms while protecting your precious enamel.

Daytime habits of clenching or grinding deserve attention too. Our doctors will analyze your bite and make sure they're moving against each other properly when you chew. Regardless of the cause, reducing the strain on the jaw and your teeth as quickly as possible can save you money and time spent in the dental chair.

Call (541) 238-9878 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment and learn more about teeth grinding treatment in Eugene, OR.