Bruxism, a condition in which you subconsciously grind or clench your teeth at night. It also includes gnashing and clenching of the jaw. Some people grind their teeth on occasion, especially during stressful periods. Chronic bruxism can lead to headaches, jaw pain, damaged teeth, and TMD (temporomandibular disorders).
Causes of Bruxism
Although it is unclear of the origin of bruxism, dentists believe there is associated with dental occlusion. Other research has indicated that there are other potential causes, which include:
Physical Condition
- Sleep disorders (such as sleep apnea)
- Abnormal alignment of upper and lower teeth (malocclusion)
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Acid reflux
- Earache or teething pain (in children)
- Complications from Huntington’s Disease
Psychological Stress
- Anxiety
- Tension
- Anger
Personality Types
- Hyperactive
- Aggressive
- Competitive
Drugs and Medications
- Tobacco use
- Alcohol consumption
- Caffeine intake
- Methamphetamine use
- Antidepressants
- Psychiatric medications
Treatment for Bruxism
The good news is, bruxism is treatable. People who grind their teeth should visit a dental professional who can evaluate the level of damage caused by grinding your teeth and plan your correction treatment accordingly. The most effective, non-invasive treatments for teeth grinding include:
Occlusal Splints
These plastic mouth-guards have been the most effective treatment to protect the teeth from wear, reduce jaw muscle activity and night grinding noises.
Mandibular Advancement Devices
Most commonly used to treat sleep apnea, Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD) are custom made appliance that hold the lower jaw and tongue forward making more space to breathe and prevent snoring.
Orthodontic Treatments
Orthodontics have been used to facilitate occlusal equilibrium, rehabilitation and dental treatment by aligning them via orthodontia.
Behavioral Approaches
Other approaches in treating Bruxism ha been with psychoanalysis, hypnosis, meditation, and habit reversal. Unfortunately these techniques lack scientific evidence and is generally not recommended.
Conclusion
If you suffer with bruxism, it’s important to protect your teeth from the effects of the grinding. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to get a complete evaluation of your level of bruxism. A 3D CT Scan can aid the dentist in determining if a sleeping disorder is the cause and provide you with the best treatment solution.
If you suspect you might be grinding your teeth at night, come in to Sedation and Implant Dentistry Las Vegas and we can help you address it before it causes any further damage. Even if it turns out that you have only occasional grinding or mild bruxism, we can help you monitor the situation and eliminate possible causes. Schedule an appointment and we will do everything we can to help you determine the causes, address the symptoms, and correct any resulting damage. Book online or give call our Tehachapi dental office at (702) 798-6684