Things You Need to Know About Bruxism

Teeth clenching or grinding is a natural physical response to cortisol hormones. Bruxism can make your teeth lose or become painful. Sometimes, the portion of your teeth becomes ground away. Bruxism can even damage the nearby gum tissue and bone. It results in jaw joint issues like TMJ.

Even slight teeth grinding can be a matter of concern. Thus, it is vital to address the issue early as soon as the symptoms occur. Taking the right steps will help to keep your teeth healthy and happy for longer.

What is Bruxism and its Different Types?

Bruxism is a condition where a person grinds teeth during the day or night subconsciously while he/she is asleep. Serious cases lead to broken teeth, jaw disorders, headaches, or worn-out enamel.

Below are the types of bruxism:

a) Conscious Bruxism

Conscious bruxism occurs when a person grinds teeth throughout the day. Did you know 70% of bruxism cases are due to stress?

b) Unconscious Bruxism

Unconscious bruxism occurs when a person clenches and grinds their teeth while asleep. This type is more dangerous because a person may not know what is happening.

How Do I Know If I Have Bruxism?

Below are the signs of teeth grinding:

• Ear pain.
• Fractures or wear on teeth.
• Face pain or headache in the morning.
• Locking of the jaw.
• Disturbed sleep.
• Neck and shoulder pain.
• Loose or painful teeth.
• Pain while eating food.
• Sore jaw muscles.
• Popping or clicking in the jaw.

What Leads to the Grinding of Teeth?

Bruxism can be caused due to:

• Anxiety and stress.
• Sleep disorders.
• Taking a few anti-anxiety medicines.
• Use of cigarettes and alcohol.
• Consuming more than cups of coffee in a day.

What Are the Symptoms of Bruxism?

Below are the common signs of bruxism:

Jaw Ache

Jaw clenching at night exerts pressure up to 250 pounds. It results in jaw disorders and jaw pain.

Dizziness and Ear Pain

Ear-related symptoms such as tinnitus and sharp ear pain are related to bruxism. The stress on the jaw also leads to dizziness.

Disturbance while Sleeping

If you wake up in the morning with fatigue, it could be caused by bruxism. In this case, it is essential to get proper treatment so that sleep bruxism does not result in other dental health issues in the future.

Dental Pain

Since clenching or grinding teeth puts pressure, it makes them painful and sensitive.

Headache and Facial Pain

Gnashing of teeth while you sleep results in headaches and facial pain. Jaw stress can also cause pain in the facial muscles and soreness.

How to Prevent Bruxism?

Take the following steps to prevent the risk of bruxism:

• Limit the use of nicotine and coffee.
• Avoid chewing on pens and other non-food items throughout the day.
• Get treatment for your underlying medical conditions.
• Avoid chewing gum.
• Manage stress through massage therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, meditation, yoga, physical therapy, and regular exercise.
• Wear a custom mouthguard to prevent grinding teeth throughout the night.
• Avoid drugs.
• Get routine dental checkups at Dental at the Met to prevent long-term damage.

How is Bruxism Treated?

The suitable treatment for bruxism depends on the cost. For this, the dentist in SW Calgary can help. Depending on the amount of tooth damage and its cause, the professionals may suggest the following treatments:

Relaxation Methods

Since stress is the main cause of bruxism, the dentist may recommend relaxation techniques. It might be taking a walk or bath, using a wet and warm washcloth on the face, counseling on managing stressful situations, etc.

Wearing a Custom-Made Guard

A customized guard from the dentist protects from grinding against the lower teeth. You can wear it at night and also at times of high stress. Although this device is a good method to manage bruxism, it is not a cure.

Minimizing High Spots

For abnormal bites and cracked or broken teeth from bruxism, the dentist recommends treatments like dental crowns, fillings, bridges, etc.

Get Bruxism Treatment Today

When you grind your teeth daily, it can damage your teeth, temporomandibular joints, and jaw muscles. Whether you clench your mouth due to stress or other reason, getting treatment for bruxism in Calgary, AB can help. The dentist will help you spot the symptoms of bruxism that you may have not noticed before.