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The condition

Bruxism

What is teeth grinding?

Teeth grinding, known medically as bruxism, is the habit of clenching, gnashing or grinding the teeth together, whether consciously during the day or unconsciously at night. 

Bruxism can occur in adults and children, but it has different causes and degrees of severity at different ages. The average person who grinds their teeth only reacts when some of the symptoms of the condition make themselves known, or a doctor brings it to his or her attention..

Bruxism is generally classified into two main types:

  • Awake Bruxism: This is often characterised more by tooth clenching than actual grinding. It is commonly associated with emotional stress or anxiety, concentration, or habitual behaviors such as nail biting or cheek chewing.
  • Sleep Bruxism: This is worse as the biting forces are stronger while asleep and are not consciously regulated. It is classified as a sleep-related movement disorder and can sometimes be associated with other sleep problems.
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The symptoms

Worn tooth enamel or flattened teeth
Increased tooth pain and sensitivity
Pain or tightness in the jaw especially upon waking
Neck pain
Temple headaches
Ear pain without infections
Disrupted sleep
Chipped, cracked, and loose teeth
Sores on the tongue or inside of the cheek
When to see a doctor?
Consultation Is The Key
How to diagnose teeth grinding?

If you have any of the above symptoms, you should speak to a healthcare provider. Also, children grind their teeth, particularly during growth spurts or with stress, but it often resolves on its own. Adults, on the other hand, tend to need more upfront intervention.

If you grind your teeth and have tooth damage or sensitive teeth, diagnosis usually begins with a physical examination. They will consider any tooth wear, jaw tenderness or the presence of soft tissue damage in the mouth.

In certain situations, your doctor may advise:

  • Dental x-rays to rule out internal damage to the tooth
  • Sleep studies, if there is a suspicion of obstructive sleep apnea
  • Follow-up with a specialist. A neurologist or sleep doctor may be best suited to help manage symptoms.
Potential treatment options
The causes
What is the main cause of grinding teeth?

Although the true origin of bruxism is not always known for certain, it is believed to be caused by a number of factors:

  • Excessive stress or emotional strain: Those under pressure, anger, or frustration may clench or grind their teeth and not know it.
  • Some personality characteristics: Those who feel they must be in control or are highly competitive, or those who are easily angered or rushed tend to grind their teeth.
  • Brain chemistry: Some imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) can influence mood.
  • Drug side effects: Teeth grinding is thought to sometimes be a side effect of certain antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and medicines used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  • Psychological stress: Fear and emotional stress can result in tense muscles, particularly in the jaw.
  • Medical conditions: Parkinson’s disease, dementia, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disorder), epilepsy, may be linked to bruxism.
The risk factors
What are the risk factors for teeth grinding?
  • Stress and anxiety: Emotional stress is one of the major triggers, especially in awake bruxism.
  • Sleep related disorders: Sleep disorders, like sleep apnea, are commonly associated with night time grinding.
  • Malocclusion: Crooked teeth sometimes cause grinding as the jaw seeks a natural resting position.
  • Lifestyle factors: Heavy alcohol use, smoking, drinking caffeinated beverages can also raise the risk of grinding.
  • Genetics: Research suggests that sleep bruxism may be hereditary.
The complications
Hidden Dangers
Can it be left untreated?
  • Although occasional grinding does not usually need to be treated, persistent bruxism can have consequences. They are usually the result of long-term disease, and can include:

    • Large amount of wear, fracture, and erosion on teeth.
    • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
    • Headaches and migraines.
    • Sleep disruption.
    • The pain on the face and muscle tiredness.

The prevention
Manage Stress
Can managing stress really help prevent teeth grinding?

Yes. Psychological stress is the most common cause of bruxism particularly in adults. Developing good stress management habits can minimise how often and how hard you clench, particularly during daytime hours.

Tips for reducing stress

Practice some relaxation methods, such as deep breathing, exercise or mindfulness meditation. Speaking therapies like CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) can assist to address any underlying anxiety that might be causing teeth grinding habits.

Improve Sleep Habits
Does better sleep reduce teeth grinding at night?

Yes. Night time bruxism can be worsened by poor sleep or erratic sleep habits. Establishing a soothing bedtime routine may help your brain and muscles relax, reducing grinding at night.

Tips for a healthier sleep routine

Maintain a consistent bedtime and wake time, avoid the screens before bed and, in some situations, limit caffeine or alcohol in the evening. A relaxing activity, such as reading or taking a warm bath, can be soothing and calming as you prepare for sleep.

Limit Stimulants
Can cutting back on caffeine and alcohol make a difference?

Caffeine and alcohol are examples of stimulants that can increase muscle activity, as well as disturb your sleep, factors known to cause or worsen symptoms of bruxism.

Better choices during the day

Consider having decaf and herbal teas in the afternoon. Do not drink alcohol, especially before bedtime, to help encourage even sleep and fewer grinding episodes. Avoid chewing gum because it helps your jaw muscles to become more accustomed to clenching and more likely to grind.

Mouthguards Offer More Protection
Is a mouthguard effective in preventing damage from grinding?

Yes. While it does not stop the grinding, a custom-made mouthguard helps to protect your teeth and jaw from the damage that chronic grinding can cause, particularly at night when you are not aware you are grinding.

How to get a custom mouthguard

People ask dentists to make one that perfectly fits them. More comfortable and effective than over-the-counter solutions, it may also help reduce jaw pain.

Address Dental Issues
Can fixing bite problems help prevent teeth grinding?

In some cases, yes. Grinding may also develop due to misaligned teeth or bite problems, forcing your jaw to work harder whether to rest, or simply to chew. Dealing with these problems can lead to a decrease in bruxism.

What to ask your dentist

Consider asking whether your teeth or the alignment of your jaw is contributing to your symptoms. Treatments such as braces, reshaping the teeth or dental restorations may help improve how your bite fits together and reduce muscle tension.

  • collapse expand
    Can managing stress really help prevent teeth grinding?
  • collapse expand
    Does better sleep reduce teeth grinding at night?
  • collapse expand
    Can cutting back on caffeine and alcohol make a difference?
  • collapse expand
    Is a mouthguard effective in preventing damage from grinding?
  • collapse expand
    Can fixing bite problems help prevent teeth grinding?
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