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Bruxism — teeth grinding and jaw clenching — is commonly driven by craniosacral imbalance and upper cervical tension, not just stress. SOT cranial adjusting provides a structural solution that dentistry alone cannot.
Bruxism is involuntary teeth grinding or jaw clenching occurring most commonly during sleep. While stress and anxiety are well-known triggers, the structural component is frequently overlooked: temporal bone distortion and sphenobasilar dysfunction create abnormal neuromuscular tension in the temporomandibular joint and masseter muscles. Upper cervical subluxation contributes through reflex hypertension of the jaw muscles. Craniosacral imbalance — particularly occipital and sphenoid restrictions — can drive chronic bruxism independently of psychological state.
Cranial adjusting specifically targeting the temporal bones, sphenoid, and occiput normalizes the craniosacral rhythm and reduces the structural drivers of jaw muscle hypertonicity. Dr. Foss works in close coordination with the TMJ and the temporal bones — which house the temporomandibular joint — to restore balanced mechanics. Upper cervical corrections eliminate the reflex tension contributing to nighttime clenching. Many patients report that after a few cranial adjustments, they wake without jaw pain and their dentist notices reduced tooth wear. This structural approach complements dental night guards without making teeth grinding permanently dependent on an appliance.
At Pura Vida Chiropractic, Dr. Foss uses Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) — a gentle, category-based system that addresses the spine, pelvis, and craniosacral rhythm as one integrated unit. SOT restores proper biomechanics, reduces nerve interference, and creates the neurological environment your body needs to heal itself.
Pura Vida Chiropractic is a family-friendly, bilingual (English/Spanish) clinic serving San Antonio, TX. Dr. Dan Foss is trained in Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT), a comprehensive chiropractic system that addresses the whole body — not just the area of pain. We combine hands-on spinal correction with the latest regenerative technology to help patients resolve the root cause of their condition rather than masking symptoms.
We are insurance friendly. Bring your insurance card and ID to the office to verify how your insurance can contribute to your care. New patient appointments are available promptly.
Comparing options? See how to choose a chiropractor near me in San Antonio or read our guide on how to choose the best chiropractor in San Antonio.
Bruxism — chronic teeth grinding and clenching, typically during sleep — involves a combination of stress, sleep disruption, malocclusion, TMJ dysfunction, and cervical and cranial patterns that maintain jaw muscle hypertonicity. Many bruxers have an upper cervical and craniosacral pattern that perpetuates the grinding cycle.
Dr. Foss treats bruxism as a craniocervical problem, not just a jaw problem. SOT cranial work releases temporal-bone restriction and balances the sphenobasilar synchondrosis. Upper cervical correction removes the trigeminal nerve irritation driving jaw muscle hypertonicity. Many bruxers see significant reduction in grinding and morning jaw tension within several visits.
Most patients see meaningful improvement within 8–12 visits. Stable resolution typically develops over 12–20 visits across 8–12 weeks. Coordinating with a dentist for an occlusal splint accelerates results in heavy grinders.
Yes. SOT and cranial chiropractic use fingertip-level pressure for cranial work and gentle non-rotational cervical techniques. Dr. Foss coordinates with dentists when occlusal evaluation is appropriate.
Schedule your new patient appointment with Dr. Foss at Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio, TX. We'll identify the root cause and build a personalized care plan.
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