Home » Bruxism or Teeth Grinding: Causes and Management

Bruxism or Teeth Grinding: Causes and Management

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Bruxism

Do you remember Richard (Quentin Tarantino) reminding Seth (George Clooney) to wear a mouth guard in the 1996-flick From Dawn Till Dusk? Well! The reason was Seth being so stressed that his teeth performed their own tap dance while he slept. Jokes aside, we are referring to Bruxism, a health condition causing teeth-grinding and clenching when a person is asleep. However, the affected person may unconsciously clench or grind their teeth even when awake.

If you, too, have been apprised of showing signs of bruxism or have noticed your loved one gnashing their teeth while they are sleeping, it’s time to act. Read this blog to learn more about this condition and manage it effectively.

What is Bruxism?

Bruxism involves movements like teeth rubbing or clenching against each other. The condition is called sleep bruxism if these unwanted and involuntary movements occur at night. If a person grinds or clasps his teeth unconsciously while awake, the disorder is known as awake bruxism.

What is the Main Cause of Bruxism?

Doctors are still trying to identify the exact cause of bruxism. However, a combination of psychological, physical, and genetic factors is a possible reason. For example, awake bruxism could result from anger, anxiety, frustration, or tension. Similarly, one of the reasons for sleep bruxism is sleep apnea. Some other commonly known causes of bruxism are:

  • Misaligned bite: Bite issues or missing teeth may trigger bruxism. Contrarily, bruxism may also lead to bite problems.
  • Growing teeth: Bruxism is common in children when their teeth are growing—the rapid development of teeth and jaw during childhood results in bruxism in some children. However, most children outgrow this condition without significant or long-term damage.
  • Stress and anxiety: Whether day-to-day stressors or psychological disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), both can cause bruxism, especially in adults.
  • Heredity: A family history of bruxism could be one of the reasons for the onset of bruxism symptoms.
  • Caffeine, alcohol, and smoking: People who consume high amounts of caffeine and alcohol and those who smoke inordinately are at a higher risk of developing this condition.
  • Medications: Bruxism can be a side effect of certain medication types such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), antidepressants, and antipsychotics.
  • Neurological conditions: Conditions that affect motor skills and coordination of body functions; for example, Parkinson’s disease could contribute to bruxism.

Does Bruxism Affect Dental Health?

Yes, a lot. In the long-term, teeth grinding while sleeping or during the day causes one or more of the following problems.

  • Loss of tooth enamel
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Jaw pain
  • Gum inflammation
  • Teeth scraping that leads to short and flattened teeth
  • Damage to dental appliances like fillings and crowns
  • Loosening of teeth
  • Weakening of teeth that may eventually lead to tooth fracture
  • TMJ syndrome, causing pain and tension in the jaw, headaches, earache, and difficulty talking and chewing

How Do You Get Rid of Bruxism?

Treatment for teeth-grinding includes wearing a mouthguard before sleeping. You may buy it over-the-counter or consider getting a customized mouthguard from your dentist. Besides, treating the underlying cause of bruxism is the best long-term solution to get rid of teeth grinding and clenching.

Want to preserve your dental esthetics and functionality and enjoy a deep slumber every night? Then, step up and get bruxism treatment at the earliest.

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