Do you ever get a headache or a sore jaw that won’t go away when you wake up? If you answered “yes,” you may suffer from bruxism, a disorder in which you frequently clench or grind your teeth as you sleep. Many dental issues, such as tooth deterioration, sensitivity, and even tooth loss, can be brought on by bruxism. We will look at the reasons, signs, and potential remedies for tooth grinding.
What Is Bruxism, Exactly?
A person who develops bruxism repeatedly grinds or clenches his teeth unintentionally. Even though it can also happen during the day, it is frequently related to teeth clenching or grinding at night. Bruxism, which can be acute or chronic, can lead to a variety of tooth issues over time.
Why Do People Bruxism?
Many factors may lead to the onset of bruxism despite the fact that its precise origins are not well known. They consist of:
Bruxism is usually linked to anxiety, stress, and tension. While under a lot of stress, a person is more likely to clench their teeth or grind their teeth.
Misaligned teeth or jaws may also be the source of bruxism. An unequal bite may cause greater stress on some teeth, which could cause clenching or grinding. The jaws and teeth’s incorrect alignment is what causes this.
Sleep disorders, including sleep apnea can bring on bruxism. When this happens, the body clenches or grinds when sleeping to try to maintain an open airway.
Antidepressants are one class of medication with the potential to result in bruxism.
What Signs and Symptoms Point to Bruxism?
The symptoms of bruxism might vary from person to person, and some people may even show no symptoms at all. Yet, common bruxism symptoms and signs include:
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Sore jaws
- Sensitive teeth
- Toothaches
- Broken, chipped, or worn teeth
- As well as sleep difficulties.
If you have any of these symptoms, you should talk to your dentist right away. They can advise you on what to do and whether bruxism is at the root of your issues.
How Might Bruxism Be Recognized?
Your dentist can determine if you have bruxism by inspecting your teeth and discussing your symptoms. In some circumstances, a sleep study, for example, may be recommended to determine whether underlying sleep disorders are a factor in the development of the disease.
The Treatment For Bruxism
Depending on the extent of the issue and the underlying reason, there are many bruxism therapy alternatives. Traditional therapies include:
Mouthguards: Mouthguards, also known as night guards, are custom-made devices that fit over teeth to stop clenching and grinding. They are frequently worn at night and could be a useful method of preventing tooth damage caused by bruxism.
Reduction of Stress: Because stress usually causes bruxism, it might be beneficial to treat the condition using methods for reducing stress, including relaxation treatment, exercise, and meditation.
Orthodontic Therapy: When crooked teeth or misaligned jaws cause bruxism, orthodontic therapy can effectively realign the teeth and reduce pressure on specific teeth.
Drugs: Sometimes, bruxism is treated with medications. Doctors may give muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety drugs to aid with jaw muscle relaxation and lessen the propensity to grind or clench the teeth.
Is Bruxism Preventable?
There is currently no recognized treatment for bruxism; however, there are certain things you can do to lessen your risk of getting it or experiencing its side effects. These conclusions are drawn:
- As stress is a common contributor to bruxism, attempting to manage your own stress can be beneficial. This may entail stress-relieving exercises, hobbies, and calming practices like meditation or deep breathing.
- Steer clear of these foods and drinks: Foods that are difficult to chew, alcohol, and caffeine can all make bruxism worse. Avoiding or curtailing these activities is preferable, especially right before nightfall.
- Form Sound Sleep Habits: Getting adequate sleep and sticking to a regular schedule will help lower your risk of bruxism.
- Consult a Doctor if You Have a Sleep Disorder: If you have a sleep issue, such as sleep apnea, see a doctor. This may reduce the likelihood of bruxism.
- Routine dental exams can help detect and treat bruxism before it seriously harms teeth.
Conclusion
If left untreated, the prevalent condition of bruxism can lead to dental issues. If you suffer from any bruxism symptoms, such as jaw soreness or tooth sensitivity, it is imperative that you speak with your dentist. Therapy options include mouthguards, breathing exercises, orthodontic treatment, and relaxation techniques as alternatives to medication. You may safeguard your teeth and lessen the signs of bruxism by attempting to manage your stress, creating healthy sleeping habits, and starting therapy as soon as possible.
If you suspect that you may be clenching or grinding your teeth or if you are exhibiting any of the bruxism symptoms, call Guelph Royal Dental Centre. Our skilled staff can assist with the diagnosis and treatment of bruxism and offer routine dental care to maintain the sturdiness and health of your teeth. To arrange a consultation, please contact us as soon as you can.
DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.