Bruxism is an unconscious teeth-grinding condition that causes deterioration of the teeth, headaches, and oral health detriments if it happens regularly. Grinding your teeth is not something to play with and could lead to severe and costly issues in the future.
RISK FACTORS AND CAUSES OF BRUXISM
Gender has no role in bruxism, but it can be genetic. You can develop bruxism if you are overly competitive, stressed, anxious, frustrated, angry, or in pain. The odds of getting bruxism are higher in children than in adults, but the state tends to disappear as children age. Some drugs such as antidepressants, tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine contribute to this state. Our dentist will examine you and let you know what has exposed you to bruxism.
TYPES OF BRUXISM
There are two classifications of bruxism— awake or sleep bruxism.
Awake bruxism has links to deep concentration or emotion control issues. You are likely to notice and stop it. With proper stress management techniques, the recurrence of awake bruxism reduces. You might, alternatively, experience sleep bruxism which is the grinding of teeth while asleep, and you may be unaware of it and how much force you are using. Sleep bruxism is more catastrophic, but our expert will give you the tools to manage it.
SYMPTOMS OF BRUXISM
You may experience tension-like headaches, facial pain, earaches, and a painful neck. Your jaw might lock, click, dislocate or hurt from soreness. Your teeth may fracture, wear, or come out, which increases tooth sensitivity. If treatment delays, you may require a tooth canal, new crowns, implants, bridges, or dentures. The inside of your cheek may experience some bruising, and the quality of your sleep may take a hit. At our offices, you’ll learn how to manage bruxism symptoms under the guidance of our dentist.
TREATMENT OF BRUXISM
Behavioral (minimizing/quitting smoking, caffeine, and alcohol) and diet changes might be all you need for treatment. Other times, a mouthguard/mouth splint is necessary to save your teeth from the extra force. If required, you may need to take medication to regulate your neurotransmitters. Visit our offices to get help understanding and treating your bruxism for a better day and deeper sleep.