Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Protect Your Smile
Teeth grinding, medically called bruxism, is the involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth. This behaviour may occur during waking hours or while sleeping, often without the your awareness. While occational grinding typically poses minimal risk, chronic bruxism can result in various dental complications and discomfort.
Causes of Grinding
Several factors can contribute to grinding, including:
- Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress ranks as one of the primary triggers for bruxism. Many individuals may grind their teeth unconsciously in response to anxiety or tension.
- Sleep Disorders: Conditions such as sleep apnea can heighten the risk of grinding during sleep.
- Misalignment of the teeth: If the teeth do not fit together correctly, grinding can occur.
- Lifestyle: Consumption of caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco can make grinding worse. Certain medications, such as antidepressants, can often list bruxism as a potential side effect.
Symptoms of Grinding
Common symptoms associated with bruxism include:
- Worn Tooth Enamel: Excessive grinding can erode tooth enamel, leading to heightened sensitivity and a greater risk of cavities.
- Jaw Pain: People may experience discomfort or pain in the jaw.
- Headaches: Tension headaches or migraines can result from the grinding process.
- Earache: Some people report earache due to the close relationship between jaw muscles and the ear.
Consequences of Teeth Grinding
Grinding can result in serious dental issues, such as:
- Damaged Teeth: Grinding can chip or crack teeth, requiring restorative treatments like crowns or fillings.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Bruxism can exert strain on the TMJ, leading to pain and functional difficulties.
- Gum Recession: Gums recede due to excessive pressure on the teeth, exposing tooth roots and increasing sensitivity.
Treatment Options
Treatment strategies may include:
- Night Guards: Custom-fitted mouthguards can be utilised during sleep to shield teeth.
- Stress Management Techniques: Practices such as yoga or meditation can alleviate stress and anxiety.
- Orthodontics: In certain instances, orthodontic intervention may be required to realign teeth and rectify bite discrepancies.