What is dental bruxism, or teeth grinding?
Dental bruxism is the unconscious habit of clenching or grinding your teeth, during the day or while you sleep. This excessive pressure affects the teeth, the facial muscles and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). If left untreated, it can cause headaches, tooth sensitivity, significant tooth wear and changes in the appearance of your smile.
What are the symptoms of bruxism?
- Uneven tooth wear, with thinner enamel.
- Tooth sensitivity to cold or heat.
- Pain, stiffness or fatigue in the jaw.
- Frequent headaches, especially upon waking.
- Clicking, popping or difficulty opening or closing the mouth.
- Tension in the facial or neck muscles.
Why does bruxism occur?
Every person is different, but some common causes are:
- Stress, anxiety or emotional tension.
- Problems with tooth alignment or bite.
- Sleep disorders or sleep apnea.
- Excessive caffeine or tobacco use.
- Lifestyle and each patient’s individual circumstances.
How is bruxism treated?
Initial evaluation
We take a complete medical history and perform a facial and dental exam, photographs, a scan or study models, and functional tests.
Personalized diagnosis
We analyze tooth wear, muscle tension, signs in the joint and the factors that trigger it.
Customized treatment plan
Depending on the case, it may include a custom occlusal splint (night guard), bite adjustment, muscle therapy or complementary treatments, with regular follow-up.
Check-ups and adjustments
We schedule periodic check-ups to adjust the splint, monitor how the case is progressing and adapt the plan if needed.
Education and self-care
We give you practical guidelines to manage stress, take care of your oral hygiene and maintain habits that support the results of your treatment.
How much does bruxism treatment cost in Lima?
The cost depends on the type of splint, the condition of your teeth and joint, and whether complementary treatments are needed. During the evaluation we make the diagnosis and give you a fixed, all-inclusive quote for your case.
What are the benefits of treating bruxism?
- Helps prevent tooth wear and fractures.
- Helps reduce facial pain and headaches.
- Helps preserve the appearance of your smile.
- Supports better function of the muscles and joint.
- Allows you to better control the factors that trigger it.
Treatment led by Dr. Lilia Demartini
The diagnosis and treatment of your bruxism are led by Dr. Lilia Demartini (COP 21568), a specialist in Oral Rehabilitation and Cosmetic Dentistry with more than 20 years of experience in Peru, Germany and the United States. Her training in occlusion and rehabilitation allows her to evaluate tooth wear, muscle function and the joint (TMJ) to design custom occlusal splints and a plan that helps protect your smile in the long term. We see patients at our Miraflores and San Isidro locations.
