Bruxism Treatment in Corona De Tucson, AZ
Personalized Solutions for Teeth Grinding with Dr. Travis Luke
Do you wake up with a sore jaw, morning headaches, or notice your teeth feel worn or sensitive? These may be signs of bruxism—a condition where you unconsciously grind or clench your teeth, often while sleeping. At Santa Rita Family Dentistry, Dr. Travis Luke offers customized bruxism treatment for patients in Corona De Tucson, Vail, Sahuarita, and nearby communities.
While it’s common to occasionally clench your teeth during moments of stress, chronic bruxism can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated. Fortunately, with the right care, you can protect your smile and prevent long-term damage.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the repetitive grinding, gnashing, or clenching of teeth, most often occurring during sleep (known as nocturnal bruxism). Over time, it can lead to enamel erosion, jaw pain, tension headaches, tooth fractures, and even TMJ disorders.
Many people don’t even realize they grind their teeth until they begin to experience symptoms—or until a dentist identifies the early signs during a routine exam.
Common Signs of Bruxism
You may be grinding your teeth if you experience:
- Flattened, chipped, or worn teeth
- Jaw tightness or soreness upon waking
- Headaches that start in the temples
- Clicking or popping of the jaw
- Tooth sensitivity without decay
- Disrupted sleep or fatigue
- Indentations on the tongue or inside of cheeks
If you’ve noticed any of these issues, especially in the morning, it’s worth scheduling an evaluation with Dr. Luke to discuss a possible diagnosis and next steps.
What Causes Bruxism?
Bruxism is often linked to multiple contributing factors, including:
- Stress and anxiety
- Sleep disorders (e.g., sleep apnea)
- Abnormal bite or missing teeth
- Alcohol or caffeine use
- Certain medications or neurological conditions
During your visit, Dr. Luke will conduct a thorough assessment of your symptoms, jaw function, and bite alignment to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Bruxism Treatment Options
Our primary approach to treating bruxism at Santa Rita Family Dentistry is through the use of custom nightguards, combined with behavioral and lifestyle guidance when appropriate.
Custom Nightguards
These durable oral appliances are worn while you sleep to create a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. Unlike store-bought options, our nightguards are professionally molded to your bite for a secure, comfortable fit. They not only prevent grinding but also reduce pressure on your jaw joints.
Bite Alignment Evaluation
In cases where grinding is related to an uneven bite, we may recommend minor adjustments or restorative work to improve your occlusion and reduce the stimulus for clenching.
Stress Management Support
Because emotional stress is a major trigger for bruxism, we may suggest relaxation techniques, improved sleep hygiene, or coordination with your physician for broader health support.
The Long-Term Risks of Untreated Bruxism
Ignoring the signs of bruxism can lead to:
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Extensive wear requiring dental crowns
- Chronic jaw pain and TMJ disorders
- Gum recession and tooth mobility
- Sleep disruption affecting overall health
By identifying and addressing bruxism early, we help preserve your natural teeth and protect the integrity of your bite for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can children have bruxism?
Yes. Many children grind their teeth during sleep, especially when new teeth are coming in. In most cases, they grow out of it—but if it persists or causes damage, Dr. Luke can evaluate and recommend age-appropriate care.
Is a nightguard the same as a sports mouthguard?
No. Nightguards are thinner and designed specifically to prevent tooth-on-tooth contact during sleep. Sports mouthguards protect against impact but aren’t effective for bruxism.
How long does a nightguard last?
With proper care, a custom nightguard can last several years. We’ll examine your appliance at your regular checkups and recommend replacement if wear is significant.
Will bruxism go away on its own?
Not usually. While symptoms may come and go, most cases of chronic bruxism require some form of intervention to prevent damage and relieve symptoms.
Does insurance cover bruxism treatment?
Many plans offer partial coverage for custom nightguards. We’ll check your benefits and provide a clear estimate before beginning treatment.
Still have questions?
Protect Your Teeth—Sleep Peacefully
Bruxism doesn’t have to take a toll on your smile. With personalized care and conservative solutions from Dr. Travis Luke, you can sleep more comfortably, protect your teeth, and reduce unwanted jaw pain or headaches.