Dentist in Rochester, MI offers treatment for bruxism patients

At the practice of Drs. Aurelia and Khoury in Rochester, MI, patients in and around the community can achieve more attractive smiles that are healthy and functional. Patients who have been diagnosed with dental conditions can seek treatment with our team. One such condition, known as bruxism, may be diagnosed by a dentist and can cause damage to the natural smile.

Understanding bruxism

Bruxism is a condition that occurs when patients clench and grind their teeth at night without even realizing they’re doing it! Drs. Aurelia and Khoury see the damage this condition causes when they evaluate patients. Many times, the condition can be diagnosed by the wear and tear on the natural teeth. Bruxism can result in:

• Wear and tear on the natural tooth enamel
• Breakage of restorations
• Muscle discomfort around the jaw joint

Sometimes, bruxism may be mistaken for other dental conditions such as TMD. This occurs when the jaw joint, called the temporomandibular joint, malfunctions. It can lock or click and is often coexistent with bruxism. Both conditions can be treated with oral appliance therapy.

What is oral appliance therapy?

Oral appliance therapy is the use of a specialized mouth guard that a patient wears to address clenching and grinding of the teeth. This mouth guard is made of medical-grade plastic and is custom-made to fit over the patient’s dental arch. Oral appliance therapy provides a barrier between the upper and lower dental arch, ensuring that clenching and grinding do not harm the natural teeth and restorations. It offers a cushion that can reduce muscle tension that can coincide with bruxism due to the stress on the jaw joint and the surrounding muscles. Many patients who have bruxism find that this treatment is highly effective in addressing their needs.

Who is a candidate for oral appliance therapy?

Any patient who has received a diagnosis of bruxism will benefit from the use of oral appliances. Additionally, if patients have conditions such as temporomandibular disorder, they can use these mouth guards as well. It is important for patients to speak with their dentist and have a full evaluation to determine if this treatment would be advantageous.

How are results achieved?

The idea behind oral appliance therapy is providing protection between the dental arches so that when the patient clenches and grinds the teeth, it does not result in damage. This is incredibly important to ensure that dental restorations are kept in place and natural tooth enamel is not worn down. Patients who have bruxism are advised to wear the oral appliance every night when they sleep, or when the clenching occurs. While most patients with bruxism experience the problem overnight, some also have clenching and grinding episodes during the day. When patients have a thorough evaluation with their dentist, they can discuss the way they should wear their appliances for the best results.

How to care for oral appliances

When patients receive their oral appliance, they are also educated on how to clean and care for them. This is essential to ensure that they last a long time and that patients can maintain them over several months. Patients should make sure to keep them clean by brushing them when they brush their teeth. They can also keep them in denture cleaning solution to keep them moist and pliable for optimum fit and function.

Interested in discussing your options for treatment of conditions such as bruxism?

Now is the time to work with a dentist in Rochester, MI who is proud to offer oral appliance therapy and other treatment solutions that can be used for not only addressing conditions such as these, but also in improving the health, function, and appearance of the teeth and gums. Our team of professionals is here for you, and Drs. Aurelia and Khoury can be reached by calling [phone2] to make an appointment. Our practice is in Rochester, MI at 804 N. Main Street, #201A.

Dr. John Aurelia
Connect with John L. Aurelia on Linkedin.

Dr. John Aurelia, DDS, brings over two decades of expertise in dentistry, having earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2003. An active member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American and Michigan Dental Associations, Dr. Aurelia has also completed advanced studies at the Dawson Academy and Pankey Institute. His dedication extends beyond practice, with a history of humanitarian work in the Dominican Republic and a focus on integrating cutting-edge techniques in implants and cosmetic dentistry. Known for personalized care, Dr. Aurelia is committed to enhancing patients' smiles and confidence.

Dr. Dina Khoury

Dr. Dina Khoury, a dedicated dentist with over 20 years of experience, graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1995. Following her education, she served veterans during her residency at the VA Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Khoury has spent most of her career in private practice, focusing on patients of all ages and specializing in cosmetic dentistry. As an active member of the Rochester community, she combines professional expertise with a personal commitment to patient care and local engagement.