Bruxism
The Crux of Bruxism
Some patients react to stress by grinding their teeth unconsciously during the day or, more commonly, while sleeping. Sleep studies have shown that some types of bruxism can occur during a certain stage of sleep. The constant pressure and motion can harm teeth, as well as muscles and tissues in and around the jaw. The damage from bruxism can be reduced by wearing a nightguard.
The Facts About Clenching & Grinding
Common symptoms of bruxism include:
- A sore jaw
- Worn teeth
- Loose teeth
- Gum recession
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Headaches
- Earaches
Causes vary, but may include:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Tension
- Misaligned teeth
- Unstable bite
- Poor posture alignment
- Other factors
Bruxism is found in about one-third of the population.
Individuals who react to stress with anger, pain, frustration, aggression, or competition are most commonly affected. People with bruxism may simply have a bad bite alignment. Habits, such as biting fingernails, pencils, lips, or the insides of their cheeks may also cause damage.
Clenching and grinding of the teeth can cause not only the aforementioned symptoms, but it may also contribute to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction, which has a long list of side effects associated with pain in the head and neck. Teeth rubbing together consistently will result in surface wear over time, which will cause dental problems. Insomnia, eating disorders, and depression can result from bruxism if left untreated.
A Solid Solution
How can you stop an unconscious habit? A thorough evaluation will allow us to check your teeth, tissues and muscles. If we determine that you suffer from bruxism or bite problems, we'll create an appliance, also called a nightguard or splint, to prevent the damage caused from grinding and clenching. Many types of nightguards exist, and patients react differently to the various styles. If one appliance does not work, another may. In many cases, simply wearing a nightguard may control the problem. However, if the condition persists, we can prescribe alternative therapies such as bite-balancing to correct the matter.
Some methods that can relieve symptoms of bruxism include:
- Stress and anxiety management
- Focused facial relaxation
- Massage and stretching of face and neck muscles
- Applying ice or wet heat
- Proper rest
- Eating soft foods
- Hydrating the body
If your teeth were damaged because of bruxism, or if we find TMJ to be a factor, our team will determine the best options for you to return your teeth to proper function and good health.
Learn more about what makes our practice unique. Then call Dr. Orser to schedule your complimentary one-hour exam. Offer includes digital photographs, jaw joint examination, decay and gum disease assessment, bite exam, and a cosmetic dentistry consultation.
We provide Arlington Heights, Lake Zurich, Barrington, Palatine, Buffalo Grove and surrounding areas with advanced dentistry for life-changing smiles.