Teeth Grinding in Houston, TX

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For many people, bruxism can be a serious problem. It can cause cracked and chipped enamel, hairline fractures, broken cusps, and even wear down the teeth to the gumline. The enamel may become so worn that the inside of the tooth (called the dentin) is exposed. If bruxism isn’t treated, it can lead to gum damage, loss of teeth and fillings, even vertical fractures that render the tooth not salvageable, or root canals. It can also cause jaw joint problems, also called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD.) TMD occurs when the muscles, joints, and ligaments of the jaw move out of alignment. In addition to jaw pain, other symptoms may include headache, earache, and even vertigo (dizziness). Bruxism has also been linked to certain health disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), epilepsy, sleep apnea, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Research shows that about 50% of adults grind their teeth and approximately 20% grind their teeth excessively, causing dental trauma. When asked, many patients will not admit to or are unaware of grinding, yet the evidence of damaged teeth is apparent in the mouth. At Patrick V. Nicosia D.D.S., M.S., Inc., we can provide an accurate diagnosis for your condition and develop an effective treatment plan with the advanced technology in our Houston, TX dental office. Book an appointment with Dr. Nicosia to address your dental concerns.

Dr. Nicosia understands the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment for bruxism. Here are some benefits of treating teeth grinding:

  • Protect your natural teeth: Teeth grinding can cause serious damage to your teeth, leading to chips, cracks, and even tooth loss. A night guard protects your teeth from excessive pressure.
  • Reduce jaw pain: Bruxism is often accompanied by jaw pain. By using a night guard, you can reduce the strain on the jaw muscles and alleviate any discomfort.
  • Improve sleep: Teeth grinding and clenching can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to poor quality sleep. A night guard can prevent these disturbances and allow you to get better rest.
  • Reduce headaches: Many people who suffer from bruxism also experience frequent headaches. A night guard can help manage this tension to alleviate headaches.

Bruxism is often caused by emotional factors, such as daily stress, anxiety, anger, or pain. The use of tobacco, alcohol, or caffeine tends to aggravate the problem. Another cause of bruxism is the use of some medications, in particular anti-depressants, so if you have noticed an increase in nighttime teeth grinding or clenching, speak to your physician.

To guard your mouth against the effects of bruxism, Dr. Nicosia can recommend a customized night guard that can defend your teeth while you sleep. Custom night guards are made with top-quality materials that fit comfortably in your mouth and improve the quality of your sleep by reducing teeth grinding and jaw clenching. To hear more about custom night guards at Patrick V. Nicosia D.D.S., M.S., Inc., set up a consultation at our Houston, TX office.

 

Dr Nicosia was my dentist over 20 years ago before I moved to another city. He is the best and very knowledgeable in his field. I still have my teeth so that is definitely due to his expertise in gum surgery and teeth care. My husband recently started having dental issues and needed to get expert care so of course we made the trip to Houston to see the expert. We are both extremely happy with the dental experience Dr Nicosia and his staff provide for our family.

D.G. Yelp

Dr. Nicosia and Cindy are simply the best at what they do. They care deeply about the patient's well being. I have been treated for dental care with Dr. Nicosia and Cindy over a decade now and wouldn't go anywhere else.

A.B. Google

Knowledgeable, great surgeon,Painless, the best.

Anonymous Healthgrades

Being a patient of Dr. Patrick Nicosia for the past 30 plus years has been a real pleasure. Dr. Nicosia and his staff make you feel welcome and relaxed when attending appointments. There is never an ounce of anxiety when sitting in the dentist chair. Over the past 30 years, even with changes, Dr. Nicosia and his staff have continued to exceed my expectations, they have always been kind and courteous, going above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable. Thank you Dr. Nicosia and your entire staff for making my visits to your office some of my best experiences.

P.M. Google

I and two other family members have used Dr. Nicosia over the past 10 years for dental implants. He’s absolutely the best! He is passionate about his work, uses the latest technology and is honest, kind and professional. His staff is equally excellent. I wouldn’t go to anyone else and I always recommend him to anyone needing dental work.

D.B. Google

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Teeth grinding can cause significant cosmetic alterations to your teeth, which can lead to functionality issues and dental concerns, like teeth sensitivity. If you think you need treatment for bruxism, call our family practice today. Dr. Nicosia can help you get back on track.

About Us
How long do night guards last?

The lifespan of a night guard can vary based on the material and how often it's used. Typically, custom-made night guards last longer, anywhere from 1 – 3 years.  However, some people report using a custom night guard for up to 5 years without deformation. Over-the-counter options may need to be replaced much more frequently.

Can children use night guards?

Yes, children who grind their teeth can also benefit from night guards. However, due to their changing dental structure, they may need adjustments or replacements more frequently.

Are there any side effects?

While most people adapt to wearing a night guard without much issue, there can be minor side effects. Initially, you may experience slight discomfort as your mouth adjusts to the appliance. Increased saliva production is also standard in the beginning. Over time, these symptoms generally subside. However, if you experience persistent discomfort or other issues like gum irritation, it's essential to consult Dr. Nicosia for adjustments or to explore alternative treatment options.

*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.