Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Bruxism affects many people. Occasional grinding of the teeth does not cause much harm. But when the grinding becomes more frequent, the teeth can get seriously damaged, leading to complications.

Why do people grind their teeth?

• Anxiety or stress.
• Improper closuring of the bite caused by absent teeth, or malocclusion (misaligned jaws or teeth).

How to know if we are grinding?

Since grinding occurs while sleeping, people may not realize it. However, a migraine or pain to the jaws in the morning are signs that indicate bruxism. Many people find out that they are grinding their teeth through their partner, who hear them during the night.

If tooth grinding is suspected, it is recommended to consult a dentist, who can examine the signs of bruxism, such as the wearing down of the teeth.

Why is bruxism harmful?

Chronic grinding of the teeth can fracture, wear down, or even cause the loss of a tooth. In these cases, treatments such as crowns, bridges, root canals, or implants may be needed.

Not only can severe bruxism harm the teeth, it can also alter the jaws, which could result in partial loss of hearing, affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), or could even change the facial appearance.

How to stop bruxism?

• The dentist can fabricate a bite splint that would be worn at night, during the grinding of the teeth.
• Reducing stress.
• Reducing foods that contain caffeine, such as coffee, chocolate, or soft drinks.
• Avoiding chewing on objects that are not food, for example, a pencil.
• Stopping ourselves from grinding the teeth when becoming aware of it, if it happens during the day.
• Relaxing the chewing muscles in the evening, by applying a wet and warm cloth to the face, in front of the ears.

Bruxism among kids

15 to 33 percent of kids grind their teeth, which usually occurs during the eruption of the teeth. This bruxism usually happens while sleeping.

There are no major treatments for kids who grind. However, if the problem persists as they get older, we may resort to putting temporary crowns on the baby teeth, and later on, a night guard.

Ways to help kids reduce grinding their teeth

• Reducing the child's stress, especially before going to sleep.
• Trying to massage and relax the muscles of the face.
• Making sure that the child drinks a lot of water, as dehydration may have a connection with grinding the teeth.
• Asking the dentist to verify if the child has signs of bruxism on their teeth.

Dental Problems

Abscess Broken Fillings Bruxism Cavity Denture Irritation Fluorosis Gum Disease Halitosis Jaw Problems Malocclusion Oral Cancers Plaque Tartar Tooth Discolouration Tooth Sensitivity Ulcer Xerostomia

References