Bruxism or, Teeth Grinding is a condition in which someone grinds, gnash or and clench his/her teeth from time to time. Usually, people perform it unconsciously which does not cause harm commonly. But when it occurs on a regular basis, it can lead to damaged teeth or, other Dental Problems.
Why do people grind their teeth?
Although teeth grinding can be caused by stress and anxiety, it often occurs during sleep and is more likely caused by an abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth.
The actual cause is unclear. Possible Causes may include:
- Daily stress
- Anxiety or tension
- Frustration or, suppressed anger
- Aggressive, hyperactive or, competitive personality type
- Response to pain from an earache or teething (in children)
- Malocclusion
- Sleep problems
- Sleeping habits
- Diet
- Posture
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Bruxism?
Grinding often occurs at night during sleep. So, most people are unaware of it. Many can not even realize it when performing in the day. You can ask your nearest one to observe it and stop you when you do it. Symptoms of bruxism may include:
- A toothache
- Teeth Grinding or clenching sound which others can hear (but, the sound is not loud)
- Looseness or aching in the teeth after waking up
- A dull, constant headache
- Jaw pain
- Tightness in jaw muscles and in the face
- Tired jaw muscles
- Earache
- Generalized facial pain
- Indentations on tongue
- Damage on the inside of the cheek
- Worn down, flattened, chipped or, fractured tooth
- Worn tooth enamel
- Tooth Sensitivity
When to make an appointment with the dentist?
If you have the following conditions, you should see a dentist-
- TMJ symptoms
- Having trouble eating
- Having trouble opening your mouth
- Pain in your jaw, face or ear
- Worn, damaged or sensitive teeth
- If you know from others that you have the grinding habit.
If you see that your child has signs or symptoms of bruxism, visit a dentist.
How can Bruxism be Diagnosed?
The dentist will first ask if anyone notice your grinding sound or not. He will look for signs of bruxism. He will check for tooth fractures, tooth sensitivity, unusual wear and tear on your teeth. If you have dental restorations such as a crown, he may look for its breakdown or loss. During the examination, he may find other disorders such as dental disorders, ear disorders e. g. ear infections, problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). If he confirms that, you have bruxism, he will several related questions to determine the cause. If necessary, he may suggest you perform a dental X-ray.
What are the Complications of Bruxism?
Normally it does not cause any serious complications. But, in severe cases Complications of Bruxism may be:
- Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
- Facial pain
- Damaged teeth
- Damaged restorations and crowns
- Tension-type headaches
What is the way of Bruxism Prevention?
- Reduce stress.
- Manage anxiety.
- Listen to music, take a warm bath or exercise regularly to relax yourself.
- Don't foods and drinks that contain caffeine after dinner.
- Avoid alcohol.
- Avoid chewing gum.
- Do not chew on nails, pencils or pens or anything that is not food.
- Hold a warm washcloth against your cheek in front of your earlobe at night to relax your jaw muscles.
- You can not notice your teeth grinding during sleeping. It may not possible to realize yourself that you grind teeth even you are awake. So, the best way is to say your near one to notice your teeth grinding and stop you. But, if you live alone, you should visit a dentist regularly.
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