What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding, is a condition where you unconsciously clench your jaw or grind your teeth. While it can occur during the day, bruxism most frequently happens at night, making it an involuntary neuromuscular activity associated with sleep. It can affect both children and adults and can lead to a range of oral health issues if not addressed promptly. In certain cases, this condition can also be caused or worsened by TMJ Disorder.
Symptoms of Bruxism
The signs of bruxism are not always easy to recognize, especially since it often occurs during sleep. However, there are noticeable symptoms that can help identify this condition, such as:
- Teeth Grinding Sounds – Often, it is a partner or family member who first notices the grinding sounds at night.
- Jaw Soreness or Tightness – Waking up with a sore or tight jaw can be a significant indicator of nighttime grinding.
- Tooth Sensitivity or Pain – Frequent grinding can lead to heightened tooth sensitivity or pain because of the wear on your teeth’s enamel.
- Headaches and Earaches – Bruxism can cause dull headaches or earaches, typically starting at the temples.
- Flattened, Fractured, or Chipped Teeth – Unusual wear patterns on your teeth or damage like chipping and fracturing can be signs of bruxism.
- Sleep Disruption – The act of teeth grinding can be forceful enough to wake you or disturb your sleep pattern.
Treating Bruxism
If you suspect you might be suffering from bruxism, it is crucial to visit your dentist. After an assessment, your dentist may recommend one or more of several treatment options that can help alleviate the symptoms and prevent further dental harm. Common treatments include:
Night Guards
One of the most common treatments for bruxism is the use of custom-made night guards. These are protective, cushioning barriers that fit over your teeth and prevent them from grinding against each other. Night guards can not only help protect your teeth from damage, but also reduce the strain on your jaw muscles.
Stress Management and Day-to-Day Adjustments
Since stress is a key trigger for bruxism, techniques like mindfulness or counseling can be beneficial in managing your stress levels and reducing grinding. Additional treatment options that can be applied to your daily routine include using a warm compress to soothe the jaw muscles and avoiding gum and excessive caffeine intake.
Dental Correction
In some cases, an abnormal bite or misaligned teeth can contribute to bruxism. Corrective treatments such as braces or dental surgery might be necessary to align the teeth properly and relieve grinding.
By addressing bruxism early with appropriate interventions like night guards and lifestyle changes, you can help protect your teeth, reduce discomfort, and improve your overall oral health. At Eastern Virginia Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our cosmetic dentists understand how bruxism can negatively impact not only your dental well-being, but also your day-to-day life. If you are experiencing bruxism symptoms and are curious about available treatments, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact our office today.