Bruxism is a habit that can wear down teeth and cause other oral health issues. Commonly referred to as “teeth grinding”, bruxism means that people habitually grind their teeth and clench their jaws. Over time, this habit can weaken teeth permanently and strain facial ligaments and muscles.
TLC Dentistry takes the threats of bruxism seriously. Treatments might include orthodontic care, restorations, stress reduction techniques, and oral appliances called “night guards.”
Causes and Symptoms
Stress is a major contributor to the development of bruxism. When people feel anxious, fearful, and angry, they might begin clenching their jaws and/or grinding their teeth. With time, the body becomes accustomed to this behavior as a response to stress and people begin to brux without consciously choosing to do so. Once bruxism develops into a habit, it is much harder to control.
Another contributing factor to developing bruxism is pain. When people are in pain, they tend to clench their jaws and bear down on their teeth. Sometimes, patients who suffer from debilitating injuries or chronic pain conditions develop bruxism.
Bruxers tend to clench and grind their teeth during sleep. Grinding teeth during rest is problematic because people are not aware of their actions or in full control of their behaviors. Nighttime bruxing can lead to serious damage to teeth and the jaw. It also contributes to orofacial discomfort.
Beyond the actual act of bruxism – clenching and grinding – there are a few symptoms to look out for:
- Facial pain and tenderness
- Worn down teeth
- Brittle teeth
- Toothaches
- Headaches
- Limited mobility when opening and closing the mouth
- Popping sounds and clicking sensations during oral function
How Bruxism Affects Oral Health & Quality of Life
Bruxism affects oral health in a few different ways. This habit severely damages teeth and leaves them in a weakened state that increases the risks for developing cracked and broken teeth as well as dental caries. Bearing down on and grinding teeth wears cracks in tooth enamel. As bruxism progresses, patients will develop weak and brittle teeth that can crack and decay. Permanent damage to teeth requires professional intervention to prevent related problems like caries, abscesses, and tooth loss.
Another way bruxism affects oral health is by contributing to malocclusions and reducing quality of life. A malocclusion is an improper bite. If your teeth do not line up and make contact appropriately during oral function, it can lead to accelerated tooth wear and TMJ dysfunction. Malocclusions put unnecessary strain on facial ligaments and muscles – especially those that support the lower mandible (jaw).
Treatment
Treating bruxism can be a process that involves various types of procedures and therapies. Our team at TLC Dentistry might try to repair the damage of bruxism by placing restorations like fillings and crowns. These restorations will protect teeth and help rebuild a patient’s occlusion.
Orthodontic therapy might be suggested as well. Straightening teeth can reduce the likelihood of teeth making improper contact and improve oral function. Our team might recommend stress reduction therapies like breathing exercises and mindfulness, too. Making adjustments to how a patient responds to stress can help break the habit of bruxism.
Another treatment option is the use of an oral appliance, which is designed to wear during sleep. Called a “night guard”, these custom appliances cover and protect teeth when a person is sleeping.
If you have symptoms of bruxism, call TLC Dentistry to schedule a consultation with our caring team.