BRUXISM/TEETH GRINDING OR CLENCHING

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding and clenching, is a condition that can cause immense pain and discomfort for those who suffer from it.

Bruxism happens most commonly at night and when you are sleeping. It is also referred to as sleep bruxism, or nocturnal teeth grinding. Bruxism is a condition that should not be taken lightly. In severe cases, it can lead to damaged or worn-down teeth, which can lead to sensitivity or even tooth loss.

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Teeth Grinding Causes

While the cause of bruxism is not certain, it is often associated with a combination of factors. Some common factors thought to contribute to the development of bruxism include:

Bruxism Treatment

It is crucial to understand that bruxism, or teeth grinding, does not have a cure. The goal of treatment is to decrease the frequency, occurrence and severity of symptoms and the damage caused by it. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment, at Ashton Avenue Dental, we recommend a combination of treatments to manage the issue. These may include:

Occlusal splints

Often also referred to as a mouthguard, nightguard, or nocturnal bite plates, occlusal splints are worn at nighttime to prevent any damage to your teeth resulting from clenching and/or grinding in your sleep.

Physical Therapy

Exercises to strengthen the jaw may help relieve symptoms of TMJ and bruxism.

Medication

Your dentist or doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants and anti-anxiety medications to help reduce teeth grinding.

Anti-wrinkle Injections

These injections may work to relax your jaw muscles and reduce grinding.

Surgery

There may be a need for surgical correction if there is an underlying structural cause.

Specialist referral

You may need a referral to a specialist to address some of your other symptoms.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ)

TMJ disorders refer to a group of conditions that affect the jaw joint and the associated muscles. Symptoms often include jaw, face or ear pain, along with difficulty eating and popping/clicking sounds when opening the jaw. Similar to teeth grinding, the cause is not always clear but often triggered by factors such as stress, injury, or arthritis. The emotional toll of bruxism can be devastating, as sufferers may feel embarrassed or self-conscious about their grinding habits. Patients may also feel frustrated and helpless as they try to find a way to stop the grinding and alleviate their pain. Some common teeth grinding symptoms include:

Bruxism Risks

The constant grinding and clenching of the jaw can lead to severe headaches, jaw pain, and even damage to the teeth. The constant wear and tear on the teeth can cause them to become worn down, chipped, or even fractured. It can also lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause even more discomfort and pain.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of teeth grinding or clenching, it is important to seek help from your dentist at Ashton Avenue

With the right treatment, it is possible to manage and reduce the symptoms of bruxism, and regain the ability to enjoy life free from the pain and discomfort caused by this condition.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Is bruxism a serious condition?

As with many conditions, bruxism can lead to further dental damage and jaw pain if left untreated. Speak to your dentist if you suspect you have bruxism, so we can help you get the right treatment.

Can bruxism be prevented?

Avoiding and reducing the triggers for bruxism may be helpful in preventing this condition from forming. Reducing anxiety and stress, limiting alcohol and caffeine, and practising good sleep hygiene may reduce the likelihood of experiencing bruxism.

How is bruxism treated?

Our dentists in Claremont often treat teeth grinding by providing a custom fitted night guard for patients to wear while sleeping. Other techniques include physical therapy for jaw pain and prescribing medication to control the muscle activity or anxiety related triggers.

How is bruxism diagnosed?

Your dentist will undertake a physical examination and take your symptoms into consideration. Your dentist may also take an X-Ray and impression to determine the condition of your jaw and teeth.

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