When we are stressed or angry, they clench their teeth, push their jaw forward, grind their teeth repeatedly, or in a dream. When this becomes a habit it is called bruxism.
Who is prone to bruxism?
Bruxism is a high incidence in both adults and children. Bruxism during sleep can appear as early as age 4, but peaks between ages 10 and 14. Bruxism is more common in adults after sleeping and waking up.
What can cause bruxism?
The pathogenesis of bruxism has not yet been elucidated. However, studies have found some common problems among people with this habit. Bruxism after waking appears to be closely related to emotional stress. Many people with sleep bruxism experience difficulty breathing, such as snoring or interrupted breathing, during sleep.
In one study, more than half of children with interrupted breathing had sleep bruxism. Some medications can also trigger bruxism. Drinking caffeinated beverages and smoking may also increase the risk of bruxism.
What damage can bruxism cause?
Bruxism is bad for your teeth and muscles. It is estimated that people with bruxism use up to six times more force than normal to bite or bite, resulting in damage to the teeth, possibly causing surface cracks, and broken teeth, which can lead to tooth pain. In severe cases, bruxism can lead to tooth loss. The stress of bruxism can also damage the tissues that support the teeth, causing them to loosen.
So how do you know if you may have bruxism? People with bruxism may experience the following symptoms:
1๏ผjaw pain or stiffness
2๏ผmolar
3๏ผheadache (especially when you wake up)
4๏ผTeeth are sensitive to heat and cold
5๏ผIndentation on the side of the tongue
6๏ผdisturbed sleep
7๏ผdaytime sleepiness
8๏ผwaking up frequently at night
9๏ผdifficulty falling asleep
What should I do if I think I may have bruxism?
Please consult your dentist. He might suggest you:
Take or inject muscle relaxants, medicines that reduce muscle tension
If you are taking other medicines at the same time, your medication regimen may be discussed with your primary doctor.
A dental night guard may be recommended to help protect your teeth. Custom plastic trays can be made to fit your upper or lower teeth, which can help reduce clenching or grinding.
In Conclusion
Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching the teeth or pushing the jaw forward. It can cause headaches and muscle pain, and damage your teeth and gum tissue. A dentist will help with your diagnosis and treatment.
