Bruxism treatment primarily aims at reducing pain, preventing damage to the teeth, and reducing clenching and grinding as much as possible. Different approaches to treatment include stress management, behavior therapy such as biofeedback, using mouth guards or oral devices that fit over the teeth, and lastly, dental correction procedures. In stress management, a doctor might recommend seeing a therapist or a counselor for cognitive behavioral therapy to help the patient learn to cope with stress and anxiety. This method also supports the patient to unlearn behaviors such as grinding teeth. When it comes to behavior therapy, the doctor can guide patients through an improvement plan, which involves biofeedback – a technique to help control muscle activity. Other general recommendations may include avoidance of alcohol, caffeine, and stimulating activities at night to promote sound sleep. Consuming a diet rich in magnesium might also help.

Mouth guards, also known as night guards, are custom made by dentists to fit the patient’s mouth. The guard is designed to separate the teeth, thereby preventing grinding and clenching during sleep. The appliance reduces the stress of grinding on teeth, the jaw joint, and the surrounding muscles. In case non-invasive treatments do not work, dental correction procedures may be undertaken. These can include reshaping the chewing surfaces of the teeth or using onlays. If the bruxism is caused by crooked or missing teeth, dental correction may involve dental restoration methods such as reshaping the biting surfaces of the teeth, overlays, crowns, or braces. It is crucial to note that severe bruxism cases might require dental surgeries or even medicines such as muscle relaxants to help decrease grinding, although these instances are quite rare.