Woman with headache and jaw pain

Bruxism

Do you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or other uncomfortable symptoms that you don't know the cause of? You may have bruxism, a condition that causes teeth grinding and clenching. Fortunately, you have treatment options. Dr. Douglas Pohl in Fort Walton Beach, FL, can diagnose and treat bruxism to relieve your discomfort and improve your quality of life.  

Bruxism and TMJ Disorders Understanding the Difference

Bruxism is often discussed alongside TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. While bruxism can cause a patient to develop a TMJ disorder, the conditions differ.
Man with headache in bed

Sleep Bruxism

Sleep bruxism causes patients to clench and grind their teeth while they sleep. You may wake up with jaw pain, headaches, and other bruxism symptoms but not realize you have the condition, as it doesn't affect you during the day. 

Woman with headache at work

Awake Bruxism

Awake bruxism occurs during the day. Patients with awake bruxism clench and grind their teeth while concentrating on work or when overwhelmed by stress. This form of bruxism can also be hard to recognize in the moment. 

Woman with jaw pain

TMJ Disorder

A TMJ disorder occurs when the jaw joints become inflamed. This is typically caused by an imbalanced bite, but it can also be caused by bruxism. If you grind your teeth to the point of jaw joint inflammation, you may develop a TMJ disorder. 

Treatment Can Be Simple For Patients With Bruxism

Once we diagnose your bruxism, we'll begin with non-invasive dental treatment. These methods are often enough to manage and treat the condition, preventing further wear and tear on teeth. 

Nightguard

Wearing a nightguard to bed is ideal for patients with sleep bruxism. We can customize a nightguard that cushions your top and bottom teeth when you clench or grind your jaws. This prevents dental damage and alleviates the pressure put on the jaw muscles as a result of teeth grinding. 

Call to Learn About Nightguards

Physical Therapy

Patients with awake bruxism may benefit more from physical therapy. This can teach you how to recognize the symptoms of bruxism, as well as exercises to relax your jaw and avoid teeth grinding.

Call to Discuss Physical Therapy

Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking, managing stress levels, and reducing caffeine intake, can greatly reduce the symptoms of bruxism, like grinding and clenching the teeth. 

Request a Bruxism Consultation

"Dr. Pohl and everyone in his office are awesome." Patient Praise for Our Fort Walton Beach Practice

1

Steven Schaub

2022

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Dr Pohl and everyone in his office are awesome. I had a great experience and appreciate their great customer service

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1

Vickie Roberson

2022

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Best dentist. I have been with Dr Pohl for over 20 years . I completely trust him taking care of any and all issues I have had with my teeth

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Douglas F. Pohl, DDS, PA

Douglas Pohl, DDS

Douglas Pohl, DDS, in Fort Walton Beach, FL, provides families in Destin, Pensacola, and surrounding communities with expert general, cosmetic, and restorative dental care. Dr. Pohl has more than 30 years of experience, and is affiliated with several respected professional organizations, including:

  • The American Dental Association
  • The Florida Dental Association
  • The University of Cincinnati Alumni Association

Dr. Pohl can see your whole family during the same appointment. Make an appointment today by contacting us online or calling (850) 243-0800.

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