Identify Known Bruxism Causes
Bruxism is a problem that many patients face; it is the unconscious, clenching and grinding of the teeth. One specific cause is unknown, but there are a number of factors that can lead to bruxism, and left untreated, can cause severe issues down the road. Your dentist can help identify contributing factors that may cause you to clench and grind your teeth and provide relief in the form of a mouthguard or, when necessary, refer you to a specialist.
Bruxism: Symptoms
Bruxism can negatively impact how you feel and how well you sleep. A few signs that you may be suffering from bruxism may include:
- Soreness or tight jaw muscles, especially upon waking
- Tooth sensitivity
- Chipped, cracked, loose, or worn teeth
- Headaches starting from your temples
Sleep Issues
Snoring, sleep apnea, and sleep talking can cause you to clench and grind in your sleep. Your dentist may have you participate in a sleep study to diagnose sleep issues. This study will enable your dentist or general doctor to provide the best treatment. Sleep studies are usually required by insurance if you need a sleep appliance.
Malocclusion
Bite alignment can have a major impact on your oral health. Not only does misalignment cause jaw issues, decay, and bone loss, but it can also contribute to bruxism. Depending on the severity of misalignment, orthodontic treatment may correct your bite; more extreme cases could require jaw reconstruction.
Lifestyle Habits
Use of tobacco products, alcohol consumption, and a high caffeine intake increase your risk of developing bruxism. Age can be a factor as well; bruxism is common in pre-teen children.
Medical Disorders and Medications
Certain medications list bruxism as a side effect, including antidepressants and those used for psychiatric treatment. Parkinson’s Disease, Dementia, and Huntington’s Disease are some underlying medical issues that may cause a patient to experience bruxism.
Negative Emotions
Stress and other negative emotions can cause bruxism at all times of day. Anger, frustration, and anxiety can lead to clenching the jaw, but a day guard can help minimize the impact of bruxism on the teeth. Clenching or grinding your teeth is a coping mechanism, so it is important to notice what causes stress in your day-to-day life and to find a way to relieve or avoid those stressors.
Bruxism: Prevention and Treatment
A mouth guard can be worn to help protect your teeth from the pressure bruxism causes. If you think you may be clenching and/or grinding your teeth, speak with your dentist and let them know your symptoms. They will take some X-rays and evaluate your teeth and bite, among other things.
If they believe you would benefit from a day or night guard, they will have impressions taken for the guard to be fabricated. Guards can also help prevent premature wear of restorative work, so wear your recommended dental guard as a protective measure for your teeth.