Is Bruxism a Problem?
Bruxism is the unconscious crunching and grinding that many patients do, often in their sleep, but some people suffer during the day as well. As with many issues, bruxism can become a problem when it is left untreated. Bruxism can have a negative impact on your teeth, causing sensitivity, chips or cracks, wearing away, as well as causing headaches, ear pain, and jaw pain.
Causes of Bruxism
The exact cause of bruxism is unclear, but a number of factors can contribute to the severity of each case. Sleep disorders that can lead to excessive grinding include snoring and sleep apnea, but there are sleep appliances designed specifically to address snoring that your dentist can have made for you. Your dentist may recommend a sleep study to accurately diagnose your issues and develop the best treatment plan.
Stress, anxiety, anger, and frustration can cause patients to clench or grind during the day, in which case your dentist may advise a day guard to combat the effects of bruxism on your teeth. In a relaxed position, your jaw should be slightly open so that your teeth do not touch, but your lips are closed. The only time your teeth should touch is while speaking or eating, so if you catch yourself clenching your teeth, try to relax your jaw and bring it back to a neutral position.
Additionally, patients may be at higher risk of bruxism when they consume alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco products.
Bruxism Effects
While bruxism may be a temporary issue during particularly stressful times of life, some patients may have a more severe case in which they experience tooth sensitivity, weakened enamel, the wearing down of teeth, chipping or cracking of the teeth, headaches and jaw pain upon waking, ear aches, sore jaw muscles, and TMJ issues.
Treatment for Bruxism
Informing your dentist if you experience any of these issues is important so that they can begin treatment as soon as possible to prevent further damage. A mouthguard is one of the best ways to protect your teeth from the impact of bruxism, which your dentist can provide for you. A night guard that you sleep with or a day guard that you wear during waking hours fits over your top teeth to provide that extra layer of protection. If you work or have school and you do not want to wear something on your top teeth, you may be able to have a day guard made for your bottom teeth.
Additionally, there are steps you can take at home to minimize bruxism in your sleep. It is important to help your body relax and prepare for rest, so a little walk before or a warm bath before bed can help your body and muscles, including your jaw muscles, begin to unwind. Once you get in bed, a little facial massage can warm up and soothe your muscles.
Again, be sure to inform your dentist if you suspect that you are clenching or grinding your teeth in your sleep. They will be able to help diagnose the problem and begin treatment or send you to a specialist if it is necessary.