Our Reviews

Julieta Lemus
Julieta Lemus
1686015877
Awesome place! Welcomed with a genuine smile.The dental hygienist was very kind and walked me through the whole process smoothly. Afterwards, the receptionist was ever so kind to explain in detail to me what a crown is with a model and everything, as I was unfamiliar with it and the process it entails. I never felt pressured to make any decisions or rushed out. A lot of people feel apprehensive about visiting the dentist because they worry that the dentist will recommend expensive or extensive work be done for the sake of money but I’ve never felt that way with any of the dentists I’ve seen at this location and I’ve been coming here for years. I highly recommend this dental office for any dental work you may need.
gracias, todos, en channel lsland, hacen un buen trabajo y ,son muy amables con las personas,.
Holly Meadors
Holly Meadors
1685999490
I love this dentist office and staff.I was treated well and was able to discuss my dentals problems. They listened to me and gave me the best approach to deal with my extensive damage.My appointments are easy to get scheduled.Timely visits and they will take you in early if time allows. Very grateful to have this group of dentists available in the County.
Johnny Stephens
Johnny Stephens
1685999085
Todo bien
Elena Cruz
Elena Cruz
1685751840
La recepción son muy atentos emfermeras y el doctor son muy atentos me encanto el servicio gracias
Eva Vasquez
Eva Vasquez
1685742385
DeAnna Medina
DeAnna Medina
1685642848
My sister referred me because of the amazing doctors.I really appreciate their expertise and how well they addressed my concerns. The doctors are very helpful in understanding preventative measures of gum disease and bring a sense of calming with unexpected knowledge of bone loss.
js_loader
Read more reviews

Introduction

Grinding or Clenching

Grinding or clenching of teeth is medically known as bruxism. Grinding or clenching could be conscious or unconscious. Most people grind or clench occasionally, that could cause no harm, but when teeth grinding occur on a regular basis that can lead to damaging in oral tissues causing other oral health complications.

Why do people clench or grind their teeth: the reasons for teeth grinding is not always clear and can vary from patient to patient. At Channel Islands Family Dental Office, our experts work tirelessly to diagnose the physical, psychological or genetic factors that can cause bruxism.

Angry teenage boy grinding teeth

Bruxism is broadly classified into two types

Awake Bruxism: grinding or clenching of teeth caused during the day while being awake. It is usually related to emotional issues, such as feeling anxious, stressed or angry.

Clenching - Apretar

Sleep Bruxism: On the other hand, when someone grind or clench their teeth while being asleep. Our specialist at Channel Islands family dental office, explains our patients since they asleep they are unaware of the condition, and an lead to jaw pains and other problems related to oral health. In some kids, grinding happens due to the improper alignment of upper and lower jaws. In some cases, it can happen as a response to teething or pain in the ear. In adult or young children, stress and anxiety is generally the cause for teeth grinding or jaw clenching.

Clenching - Apretar
Dental Night Guard

Lifestyle habits such as smoking, drinking alcohol, recreational drugs or consuming a lot of caffeine can also cause night grinding or clenching.

Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea can also be one of the reasons for bruxism.

How to diagnose: Teeth grinding or jaw clenching usually happens during the sleep and is most likely noticed by parents or siblings. However, having a constant dull headache or sore jaw after waking up could be symptoms of bruxism. If you think you or someone in your family may be grinding their teeth in sleep, talk to your dentist. Dental specialist can examine you physically examine your mouth for any signs of bruxism such as tenderness in jaw and wear and tear to rule out other causes like ear infections.

Symptoms of clenching and grinding

Teeth grinding or clenching usually happens during sleep that makes it difficult for a patient to identify their symptoms. However, signs that you may look for includes:

  1. Disrupted sleep
  2. Headaches or facial pain after waking up
  3. Pain  in the ear
  4. Wear or enamel loss
  5. Painful or loose teeth
  6. Soreness in jaw muscles
  7. Tooth fracture by excessive pressure
  8. TMJ sounds like clicking or popping
  9. Pain while chewing
  10. Lock jaw
Clenching - Apretar
Clenching - Apretar
ear pain from upper airway resistance

Treatment and methods to prevent

The treatment for grinding and clenching of teeth generally includes use of night guards, a retainer like instrument worn overnight, to prevent damage to the teeth and other oral tissues. it won’t stop grinding or clenching but will help in reducing the symptoms.

Clenching - Apretar

Our dentists at Channel Islands Family Dental take different approaches to treat bruxism based on specific symptoms and stressors that include:

Medications: muscle relaxants can help relax the jaw muscles and prevent grinding.

Lifestyle modifications: stress management and relaxation training can be identified as a useful aid to help the patients reduce the symptoms and complications of bruxism.

girl smiling

Other preventive methods include:

  • Avoid foods or drinks containing caffeine, cola or chocolate
  • Avoid alcohol
  • Do not chew on pens or anything that is not food
  • Be aware about chewing or grinding during the day. Try to stop yourself by keeping your lips together, with teeth apart and tongue behind the front teeth.
girl using Placker

Our most popular services

Find your Service!

Financing options

Payment plans as low as 99/month (*on approved credit)

Lending Club
Care Credit
Alphaeon Credit

Dental Insurances We Accept

Our Offices

Port Hueneme Office

Oxnard Office

Santa Paula Office

Ventura Office

Our Newbury Park Office

1620 Newbury Road, #5, Newbury Park, CA 91320

www.newburyparkdentist.net