About Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition where a person clenches, grinds or gnashes their teeth together. It is a common problem that affects many people, and can occur during the day or while sleeping.
Causes of teeth grinding:
Stress and anxiety: Many people grind their teeth as a result of stress or anxiety, which can cause tension in the jaw muscles.
Abnormal bite: A misaligned bite or missing teeth can cause a person to grind their teeth to compensate for the imbalance.
Sleep disorders: Sleep apnea, snoring, and other sleep disorders can lead to teeth grinding.
Medications: Certain medications such as antidepressants can cause teeth grinding as a side effect.
Symptoms of teeth grinding:
Worn, flattened or chipped teeth: Teeth grinding can cause damage to the teeth over time, leading to changes in the appearance of the teeth.
Soreness and pain in the jaw: Teeth grinding can cause pain and soreness in the jaw muscles and joints.
Headaches: The constant tension and pressure on the jaw muscles can cause headaches.
Ear pain: Teeth grinding can cause pain and ringing in the ears.
Treatment options for teeth grinding:
Occlusal Splint: A custom-made night guard can be worn while sleeping to protect the teeth from further damage caused by teeth grinding.
Stress management techniques: Stress management techniques such as meditation, exercise or counseling can help to reduce stress levels and alleviate teeth grinding.
Corrective dental treatment: If teeth grinding is caused by an abnormal bite or missing teeth, corrective dental treatment such as Invisalign aligners or dental implants may be recommended.
Therapeutic application of prescription medications may be recommended to help relax the jaw muscles and reduce teeth grinding.
Teeth grinding is a common problem that can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated. If you suspect that you or a loved one is grinding their teeth, it's important to see a dentist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment. With proper treatment and management, teeth grinding can be effectively controlled, allowing you to maintain healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime.