Bruxism Treatment in Fort Collins, CO

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the involuntary grinding, clenching, or gnashing of the teeth. It typically occurs during sleep (sleep bruxism) but may also happen during waking hours (awake bruxism), often in response to stress, tension, or concentration.

If left untreated, bruxism can lead to:

• Worn or flattened tooth surfaces
• Cracks or chips in teeth
• Jaw soreness or tightness
• Headaches and facial pain
• Tooth sensitivity
• Damage to dental restorations
• TMJ disorders or joint dysfunction

Our comprehensive general dentistry care includes evaluation and customized treatment options to protect your teeth and reduce symptoms caused by grinding.

Signs You May Have Bruxism

Many patients don’t realize they’re grinding their teeth until significant wear or symptoms develop. Common signs include:

1. Jaw pain, especially upon waking
2. Clicking or popping in the jaw joint
3. Headaches that start at the temples
4. Teeth that appear shorter, flat, or chipped
5. Increased tooth sensitivity
6. Tightness or fatigue in the facial muscles
7. Cracks in crowns, fillings, or veneers

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, a dental exam can help determine whether bruxism treatment is needed to protect your bite and jaw function.

Our Approach to Bruxism Treatment

At Ray Dental, we begin with a thorough evaluation that may include visual inspection, digital imaging, and discussion of your symptoms. Depending on the severity and root cause of your bruxism, we may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

• Custom Night Guards – A clear, comfortable appliance worn during sleep to cushion the teeth and prevent grinding. Our guards are made using digital impressions for a precise fit.
• Bite Adjustment – Minor reshaping of the biting surfaces can reduce interference that contributes to grinding.
• Stress Management Referrals – Since stress and anxiety are common triggers, we may recommend techniques or professional support for long-term relief.
• TMJ Therapy – If joint pain is involved, we may explore options for TMJ/TMD treatment to reduce strain on the jaw.
• Botox Therapy – In some cases, small doses of Botox for bruxism may help relax overactive jaw muscles.

Our goal is to reduce pain, preserve your teeth, and improve your day-to-day comfort with conservative, non-invasive treatment options.

Personalized Care You Can Trust

Every case of bruxism is different, and finding the right solution depends on your individual needs. At Ray Dental, we take time to listen and provide care that fits your lifestyle, oral health goals, and comfort preferences.

Your treatment is always guided by Dr. Veronica Ray, a Fort Collins dentist with extensive experience in managing complex dental concerns with a calm and compassionate approach. Her attention to detail ensures long-term results you can feel confident about.