Bruxism Treatment in Winston-Salem, NC

Do you wake up with jaw tension, headaches, or worn-down teeth? You may be suffering from bruxism — a common but damaging habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep. Left untreated, bruxism can lead to serious problems with your bite, smile, and comfort.

At Trenton B. Bottoms, DDS, we offer personalized bruxism treatment in Winston-Salem to protect your teeth, relax your jaw muscles, and prevent long-term complications. Dr. Bottoms takes a conservative, whole-mouth approach — focusing not just on symptom relief, but on the root cause.

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the involuntary habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep but sometimes during the day (awake bruxism). While mild bruxism may go unnoticed, chronic grinding can lead to:

• Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
  
• Tooth sensitivity or pain
  
• Jaw soreness or tightness
  
• Morning headaches
  
• Tension in the neck, shoulders, or temples
  
• TMJ dysfunction and bite problems
  
• Cracks or fractures in natural teeth or restorations
  

Bruxism is often linked to stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, or an uneven bite. If you’ve searched for a dentist near me to help protect your teeth and improve sleep comfort, we’re here to help with clear answers and non-invasive treatment.

How We Treat Bruxism

Custom Night Guards (Occlusal Splints)

The most common treatment for nighttime bruxism, a custom-fitted night guard protects your teeth and reduces pressure on the jaw joint during sleep.

• Durable, comfortable, and tailored to your bite
  
• Prevents further tooth wear or damage
  
• Helps relax the jaw muscles and reduce tension
  
• Can also relieve associated TMJ symptoms
  

Unlike over-the-counter guards, professionally made night guards are custom-designed for stability, comfort, and long-term use.

Bite Adjustment (Occlusal Equilibration)

If your teeth don’t come together evenly, bite imbalance may be contributing to grinding. Minor adjustments to high spots on specific teeth can help reduce clenching triggers.

• Often combined with splint therapy
  
• Helps correct uneven contact points
  
• Prevents premature wear or stress on specific teeth
  

TMJ Therapy

Bruxism and TMJ dysfunction often go hand-in-hand. We evaluate and treat both together when needed — for more comprehensive relief.

Stress & Lifestyle Guidance

We’ll also discuss non-dental contributors like stress, sleep habits, and posture — and refer to specialists if deeper medical factors may be at play.

Why Choose Dr. Bottoms for Bruxism Treatment?

• Conservative, Personalized Care
  We believe in protecting your teeth with the least invasive and most effective approach — tailored to your specific habits and bite.
  
• Custom-Fit Technology
  Digital impressions allow for precise night guard fabrication, ensuring long-term comfort and durability.
  
• Whole-Mouth Evaluation
  We look at the full picture — from your jaw joint to bite balance — so we don’t just treat the symptoms but solve the source.
  
• Follow-Up Support
  Your night guard isn’t a “set it and forget it” device. We monitor your progress and adjust as needed for ongoing success.