Teeth Grinding & TMJ Treatment

At Dr. Cabrera Dental Associates, our Houston dentists understand how painful and destructive the effects of teeth grinding, or bruxism, can be for sufferers. Patients with jaw disorders like TMJ also live with similar joint discomfort. Luckily, the best dentists in Houston offer a variety of dental appliances that decompress the jaw joint and alleviate pain.

Common bruxism and TMJ treatment options include the following:

Dental splints:This orthotics is made of a tough acrylic that fits over both the upper and lower teeth. Some Houston, TX dentists are equipped to make splints in-house; others need to have them sent to outside labs.

Mouth guards: A cheaper option than a splint, mouth guards can be purchased over-counter. They are constructed of a softer material than splints and may dislodge during teeth grinding. Your Houston Dentistry, Dr. Cabrera Dental Associates can create a better fitting custom mouth guard.

Misalignment correction: If bruxism is the result of dental problems, corrective teeth alignment may help. For the most severe cases when chewing has become impaired and tooth sensitivity is present, crowns or overlays may be necessary to reshape the chewing surfaces to restore function. Although reconstructive dental treatment will repair the damage, it won’t hinder the grinding.

Jaw repositioning: This adjustment can be achieved with typically 3 to 12 months of oral appliance therapy. Many custom fitted devices are available at our Houston dental clinic. Such treatments include Twin Block and ALF appliances. Your trusted and reliable Dr. Cabrera Dental Associates‘ dentist in Houston will determine which device is best for you.

Other effective therapy methods for TMJ pain include Botox injections, ultrasound, cold laser therapy, trigger point injections, specific craniomaxillofacial exercises and custom-made orthotics.