Bruxism
Did you know that teeth grinding is also referred to as bruxism? People who are tense, anxious, and stressed are more likely to grind their teeth. Misaligned teeth can also contribute to bruxism. This can happen at any age, especially in response to unexpected changes and challenges. It is estimated that 6 to 8% of adults and 14 to 38% of children suffer from bruxism. About 80% of people do it at night, involuntarily. Fortunately, it becomes less prevalent with age.
In reality, teeth should only touch each other when eating and swallowing, which is about 20 minutes a day. Unfortunately, people with bruxism grind and clench their teeth several times a week. The high pressure and friction produced by bruxism greatly damage the teeth and jaw.
Many people just don’t know that they are grinding or clenching their teeth. It is often their partner who is awakened by an unpleasant grinding noise! It is important to do something about it as soon as possible, as this habit is highly damaging to your teeth and jaw joints!
How do I know if I have bruxism?
Damaged and worn teeth are obvious signs. Other signs of this phenomenon include facial pain, headaches, earaches, and temporomandibular joint pain. Other problems include jaw cracking, restricted mouth opening, and receding gums. An accurate diagnosis is recommended to prevent significant damage.
Causes of teeth grinding
As mentioned above, stress, anxiety, and misaligned teeth can contribute to bruxism. In addition, genetics, smoking, sleep disorders, certain medications, as well as the consumption of alcohol, coffee, and tea can exacerbate this phenomenon.
Consequences of bruxism
One of the obvious consequences is premature tooth wear. It is also common to have headaches and observe pain in the jaw and temporomandibular joints. Like any other condition, it is important to treat the problem as soon as possible, otherwise complications may arise. Indeed, it is not uncommon to observe dental fractures, devitalized teeth, and joint problems.
When to consult if you grind your teeth while sleeping?
We strongly suggest that you consult us for a specific diagnosis if you ever observe one or more of the signs mentioned. There are very effective treatment plans, including using an occlusal plate at night, which we customize from your impressions. We also suggest that you try relaxation techniques to help you unwind before bedtime.
Feel free to contact us with any questions or to make an appointment. We’ll propose you a treatment plan tailored to your needs and budget.
