Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) Symptoms and Treatment

Bruxism is a common condition that involves the grinding, gnashing, or clenching of the teeth, often while a person is sleeping. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, and misalignment of the teeth.

Teeth grinding can lead to a number of symptoms, including tooth damage, jaw pain, and headaches, and it is important to seek treatment to prevent further complications. There are several cure options available, including therapy, medications, and dental appliances.

Causes of Bruxism

There is no single cause of bruxism, and it is likely that a combination of factors contribute to the development of the condition. Some common causes of teeth grinding include:

1) Stress and Anxiety: Bruxism is often associated with stress and anxiety, and people who are under a lot of stress may be more prone to grinding their teeth.

2) Misalignment of the Teeth: If the upper and lower teeth do not fit together properly, it can cause a person to grind their teeth in an attempt to compensate for the misalignment.

3) Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants and stimulants, can cause bruxism as a side effect.

4) Substance Abuse: Alcohol and drug abuse can increase the likelihood of teeth grinding.

5) Sleep Disorders: People who have sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, may be more likely to grind their teeth while they sleep.

Symptoms of Bruxism

Bruxism can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Grinding the teeth can wear down the enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity and an increased risk of cavities.
• Bruxism can cause the muscles in the jaw to become sore and tender.
• The constant grinding and clenching of the teeth can lead to headaches, especially in the morning.
• The grinding and clenching of the teeth can also cause earache, as the muscles of the jaw are connected to the ears.
• Some people with bruxism may have difficulty sleeping due to the grinding and clenching of their teeth.

Teeth Grinding: Diagnosis and Procedure

If you suspect that you may have bruxism, it is important to see a dentist for a proper diagnosis. They will ask about your symptoms and medical history and may perform a physical examination of your mouth and teeth. In some cases, they may also recommend a sleep study to determine if you have a sleep disorder that is contributing to your teeth grinding.

Treatment of Bruxism

The treatment of bruxism depends on the underlying cause of the condition and the severity of the symptoms. Some common healing options include:

1) Therapy: Stress and anxiety are common causes of bruxism, and therapy can be an effective way to manage these issues and reduce teeth grinding.

2) Dental Appliances: A dental appliance, such as a mouthguard or splint, can be worn at night to protect the teeth from grinding and clenching. These appliances are custom-made by a dentist to fit the individual's mouth.

3) Orthodontic Treatment: If misalignment of the teeth is causing the bruxism, orthodontic treatment, such as braces or a retainer, may be recommended to correct the problem.

Protectors Used Against Teeth Grinding

Anti-grinding teeth protectors (also called mouth guards or splints) are specially designed tools used to prevent the teeth from clenching and chewing, especially at night while sleeping. These tools are custom-made by a specialist to fit the patient's mouth. This helps for reducing tooth damage by protecting teeth and can also reduce mandible pain caused by bruxism.

Teeth protectors are placed in the patient's mouth appropriately and it is requested not to remove them while sleeping at night. The apparatus prevents locking by interlocking the teeth, thus also preventing decay or damage to the teeth. After getting used to its use, patients generally do not feel discomfort as before and they can sleep more comfortably at night and improve their overall sleep quality.

If patients intend to continue using it regularly, they should go through this process under the supervision of a dentist. In this way, it is possible to understand whether the apparatus is working properly and to renew it if necessary.

It is important to begin treatment for bruxism to prevent further damage to the teeth or jaw and to manage the associated pain. Wise&Smile cares about the oral health of its patients. It is possible to prepare a treatment plan immediately with a free consultation. Please contact us.