What is Bruxism? Bruxism is the medical term for the grinding of teeth or the clenching of jaws. Bruxism often occurs during deep sleep or while under stress.
What causes of Bruxism? Despite various studies, no one knows exactly why bruxism happens. But in some cases, kids & adults may grind because the top and bottom teeth aren't aligned properly. Others do it as a response to pain, such as an earache or teething. Stress also seems to be a major factor in bruxers.
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Symptoms include:
• Anxiety, stress, and tension
• Depression
• Earache
• Eating disorders
• Headaches
• Migraines
• Loose teeth
• Tinnitus
• Gum recession
• Neck pain
• Insomnia
• Sore or painful jaw
Effects of Bruxism You could have teeth that are painful or loose from severe grinding. This can lead to fractures in your teeth. In some cases, night grinding and jaw clenching can wear down tooth enamel, chip teeth, increase temperature sensitivity, and cause severe facial pain and jaw problems, such as temporomandibular joint disease (TMD).
Deterring Bruxism utilizing a Nightgaurd. One of our Dentists at Metropolitan Square Dental Care can fit you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth during sleep. The guard protects the teeth from abrasion and can reduce muscle strain by allowing the upper and lower jaws to relax. Treatment goals include: constraining the bruxing pattern to avoid damage to the temporomandibular joints; stabilizing the occlusion by minimizing gradual changes to the positions of the teeth, preventing tooth damage and revealing the extent and patterns of bruxism through examination of the markings on the splint's surface. A dental guard is typically worn during every night's sleep on a long-term basis.
Metropolitan Square Dental Care's staff is ready to assist you with a full dental exam and consultation. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!