Do you wake up with a headache or sore jaw muscles? Are your teeth chipped or worn out? If so, you may be suffering from bruxism, a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Although this dental condition has nothing to do with tooth decay or cavities, it can still have a serious impact on your overall oral health.
Here is what you need to know about bruxism, its common symptoms, and how it is treated by the family dentist in Shelby Township, MI.
What is bruxism?
Bruxism is characterized by the habitual grinding or clenching of teeth, often accompanied by jaw clenching. While it may seem harmless, bruxism can lead to serious dental and health problems if left untreated.
While the general action is the same, awake and sleep bruxism are two different conditions:
- Awake bruxism: With this condition, you grind your teeth and clench your jaws during the day. This is usually associated with emotional issues such as anxiety, stress, anger, tension, or frustration.
- Sleep bruxism: You grind your teeth and clench your jaw during sleep. This causes more harm since you are unaware it is happening and do not realize how strong the grinding or clenching action is. People with sleep bruxism can have other sleep disorders such as snoring and sleep apnea.
What causes bruxism?
Bruxism has multiple causes to it that are different in adults and children. These include:
Causes in adults
- Sleep disorders
- Stress and anxiety
- Unhealthy lifestyle habits like smoking and alcoholism
- Consumption of recreational drugs and excess caffeine
- Certain medications like anti-anxiety drugs
Causes in children
- Malaligned teeth
- Pain such as earache
- Stress
- Medical conditions like hyperactivity or cerebral palsy
What are the symptoms of bruxism?
Bruxism can manifest in various ways, including:
- Headaches
- TMJ pain
- Pain radiating to the ears
- Gnawing, full, constant tooth pain, especially after waking up
- Wearing down the tooth enamel
- Jaw pain while chewing
- Clicking or popping sounds around the TMJ
- Jaw stiffness (lockjaw)
- Myofascial pain
- Highly sensitive teeth
- Tooth indentations
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing bruxism typically involves:
Evaluation
- Recording your medical history
- Assessing your symptoms
Physical examination
- Your teeth and TMJ are examined clinically to check for signs of enamel wear, or TMJ clicking.
How is bruxism treated?
Here are some common ways in which bruxism is treated:
Conservative methods
- Relaxation exercises
- Stress management techniques like yoga
Mouthguards/Nightguards
- These are acrylic appliances that help to minimize the abrasive action of tooth surfaces during sleep.
- They also help stabilize the occlusion and prevent damage to the teeth and TMJ.
NTI-tss device
- This device is designed to fit your front teeth, preventing the abnormal grinding of the rear molars by limiting the contraction of the temporalis muscle.
Botox injections
- This is a non-invasive method that uses Botox, a neuromodulator that aids in the relaxation of the facial muscles that have been weakened due to bruxism.
Dental correction
- Dental crowns
- Composite fillings
- Dental bonding
- Reshaping teeth
- Dental implants
Other supportive treatments
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Physical therapy
Can you prevent bruxism?
These self-care tips may prevent bruxism:
- Reduce stress
- Avoid stimulating substances in the evening such as drinking caffeinated tea, coffee, or alcohol
- Practice good sleep habits
- Schedule regular dental visits
Is bruxism a disorder?
Bruxism is usually a common dental condition. About 80 to 90% of the population will, at some time, grind or clench their teeth to some degree. Thus experts view bruxism as part of a normal behavior instead of a disorder. Bruxism may not always require treatment. Management and intervention are always needed when there are health problems that arise as a result of bruxism.
When to see a dentist for bruxism?
Pay attention to your teeth. If you experience increased tooth sensitivity or pain while chewing, it’s time to see a dentist. Ask your sleep partner to observe and bring to your notice if they come across any clicking or clenching sounds at night while you are asleep. Preventive care is also crucial for addressing problematic conditions such as bruxism.
Bottom line
Bruxism is a common condition that can have serious consequences if left untreated. By understanding its causes, symptoms, and effects, you can take the necessary steps to prevent or manage bruxism. Don’t hesitate to consult your dentist or healthcare provider if you suspect you have bruxism. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, you can alleviate the discomfort and protect your dental health.
