Bruxism Treatment in Tuscaloosa, AL

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often while you sleep. Over time, this condition can cause damage to your teeth, jaw joints, and overall oral health.

There are two types:

• Sleep bruxism – unconscious grinding at night (most common)
  
• Awake bruxism – daytime clenching, often stress-related
  

Many people with bruxism are unaware they grind their teeth until noticeable symptoms or damage occur.

Common Signs of Bruxism

You might be grinding or clenching your teeth if you experience:

• Jaw or facial pain
  
• Morning headaches
  
• Tooth sensitivity
  
• Worn, flat, or chipped teeth
  
• Tightness or fatigue in jaw muscles
  
• Cracked or broken dental work
  
• Clicking or popping in the jaw
  
• Difficulty sleeping
  

If left untreated, bruxism can lead to TMJ disorder, tooth damage, or even the need for crowns or veneers.

What Causes Teeth Grinding?

Bruxism can have a number of causes, including:

• Stress or anxiety
  
• Misaligned bite (malocclusion)
  
• Sleep disorders (like sleep apnea)
  
• Missing or crooked teeth
  
• Excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption
  
• Certain medications or neurological conditions
  

At your visit, we’ll assess your bite and review your medical history to uncover the underlying causes and recommend the best treatment.

How We Treat Bruxism

Custom Nightguards

Our most effective treatment for bruxism is a custom-fitted nightguard (also called an occlusal guard or splint). This appliance:

• Fits comfortably over your upper or lower teeth
  
• Worn during sleep to absorb pressure and protect teeth
  
• Reduces tension in the jaw and surrounding muscles
  
• Helps prevent damage from ongoing grinding or clenching
  

Unlike store-bought guards, our nightguards are made specifically for your bite using digital impressions for maximum comfort and durability.

Bite Adjustment (Occlusal Equilibration)

In some cases, minor reshaping of biting surfaces can improve how your teeth come together—reducing stress on your jaw and preventing grinding triggers.

TMJ Therapy

If grinding has led to jaw pain, we may recommend TMJ therapy as part of your treatment plan.

Why Choose Rhodes & Rhodes for Bruxism Care?

• Personalized, one-on-one evaluations
  
• Judgment-free, compassionate care
  
• Advanced technology for precise nightguard fitting
  
• Holistic approach addressing both symptoms and root causes
  
• Options for both adults and children
  

We’re here to protect your smile—and your sleep—with proven, patient-friendly solutions.

Serving Tuscaloosa and Surrounding Areas

We provide custom nightguards and bruxism treatment to patients from:

• Tuscaloosa
  
• Northport
  
• Cottondale
  
• Brookwood
  
• Holt
  
• Vance
  
• Coker
  
• Moundville
  

Looking for bruxism treatment near me or nightguards in Tuscaloosa? We’ve got your comfort—and your teeth—covered.

Sleep Better. Protect Your Smile.

Don’t ignore the signs of teeth grinding. With a custom nightguard from Rhodes & Rhodes Family Dentistry, you can sleep soundly, relieve jaw pain, and avoid costly damage to your smile.