Bruxism Treatment Specialist in Wassau, WI

Many people clench, gnash, or grind their teeth occasionally, but some people do it often, unconsciously, or while sleeping, and it can become problematic. This is when the issue becomes bruxism. Sleep bruxism is a common kind of bruxism and considered a sleep-related disorder, but awake bruxism is another possibility. One of the significant issues with sleep bruxism is that it can contribute to sleep disorders like snoring and even sleep apnea. For many patients, mild bruxism isn’t a significant issue, but for others, it certainly can be, leading to headaches, damaged teeth, jaw disorders, and yes, sleep disorders.

If you or a loved one has been having some of the aforementioned issues, then you should consider being tested and possibly treated for bruxism. There are many possible signs and symptoms to look out for, which we will help with here at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders.

If you suspect that you or someone you love has bruxism, then you can watch out for some of the following signs and symptoms. However, you should get professional assistance and treatment too. Some of the signs and symptoms to watch out for include:

– Teeth clenching or grinding
– Flattened, fractured, chipped, or loose teeth
– Tooth enamel that is worn
– A change in tooth sensitivity or pain
– Jaw or facial pain
– Headaches that start in the temples
– Chewing the inside of the check
– Disruptions in sleep
– Tight or tired muscles in the jaw or even a locked jaw

These symptoms can be relieved with proper, professional treatment. The type of treatment depends on the type and severity of the symptoms, but there are some options available that are easy for patients and customized for each of them.

Symptom relief is important, of course, and for more significant cases of bruxism, treatment is especially important and can prevent teeth damage, tension-type headaches, jaw and facial pain, and even TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. Here at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders, we have a solution for these patients.

There are some things patients can do for themselves, like dealing with stress and anxiety, but this isn’t necessarily enough. One of the most effective treatment methods available is oral appliance therapy. A simple, custom-made, and comfortable oral appliance will provide a physical barrier between your upper and lower teeth, protecting them from damage and preventing grinding. Additionally, the appliance can help many patients with sleep apnea. Oral appliance therapy is approved by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and it’s proven too, providing most patients with 90% symptom relief within about 3 months.

At Koala® Center for Sleep & TMJ Disorders, we understand that bruxism can have a significant impact on your quality of life, which is why we offer tailored treatments to address the condition effectively. In addition to oral appliance therapy, we may recommend lifestyle changes, such as relaxation techniques, to help manage stress and prevent bruxism episodes. For patients with sleep apnea, we ensure that the oral appliance therapy also improves sleep quality by maintaining open airways. Our experienced team works closely with each patient to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that not only relieves symptoms but also improves overall health and comfort. With our expert care, many patients experience significant relief from jaw pain, headaches, and teeth damage caused by bruxism, helping them regain a pain-free and restful life.

At Koala Center for Sleep Disorders, we provide comprehensive bruxism treatment designed to address the root causes of teeth grinding. Our approach begins with a thorough assessment to identify contributing factors such as stress, sleep disturbances, or misaligned teeth. For many patients, custom-fitted mouthguards are a key part of the treatment plan, offering protection for your teeth and reducing jaw pressure while you sleep. Additionally, our sleep medicine specialists can perform sleep studies to check for underlying sleep disorders like sleep apnea, which may contribute to bruxism. If necessary, we offer oral appliance therapy to help maintain proper airway function during sleep.

Alongside these treatments, we may recommend stress management techniques and lifestyle adjustments to further reduce bruxism symptoms. Our team is dedicated to delivering personalized care that helps you achieve lasting relief from the discomfort and potential dental damage caused by bruxism. Please contact us today or visit us online to book an appointment. We are conveniently located at 413 North 17th Avenue Ste. #100 Wausau, WI 54401.