Recognizing the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Millions of people unconsciously grind their teeth, an action formally known as bruxism. Although occasional bruxism is not likely to cause significant damage, many people are unaware that they have been clenching their jaw and grinding their teeth until worrisome symptoms develop. Recognizing the signs of bruxism and understanding the treatment options available could help you avoid some of the many potential consequences of grinding your teeth.  

bruxismWhat causes bruxism?

Most often, bruxing is an unconscious activity. A person living with bruxism will most often grind their teeth back and forth or side to side. Although researchers have yet to identify the exact cause of bruxism, current investigations suggest a combination of physical, psychological, and genetic influences. Some of the following factors can contribute to the development of bruxism:

  • Emotional Considerations – stress, anxiety, anger, and frustration can initiate episodes of bruxism 
  • Medications and Substances – including some psychiatric medications, caffeinated beverages, and nicotine 
  • Medical Conditions – bruxism is often associated with ADHD, Parkinson’s disease, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disorder) and dementia
  • Sleep Disorders – including obstructive sleep apnea, night terrors, and other conditions that disrupt sleep cycles
  • Dental Problems – a misaligned bite, crooked teeth, and tooth loss can lead to grinding

Ideally, your upper and lower teeth would only touch when talking, chewing, or swallowing. If you are clenching or grinding your teeth, your jaw does not have an opportunity to relax. The continuous pressure on your teeth can cause excessive wear and a considerable number of symptoms.

What are the symptoms?

While some people grind their teeth for years without developing noticeable symptoms, others develop issues without realizing their discomfort could result from teeth grinding. If you’ve been grinding your teeth, you may recognize some of the following symptoms:

  • Headaches that typically start at the temple
  • Worn or cracked tooth enamel
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Damaged restorations
  • Loose or broken teeth
  • Earaches or jaw pain
  • Worsening of TMJ symptoms
  • Changes in facial appearance
  • Sleep disruptions
  • Injury to the inside of the cheek

Although not all instances require treatment, if you are troubled by any of the symptoms listed above, consider making an appointment for an evaluation. The dentist is an excellent source of information about how teeth grinding affects your smile.  

What are the treatment options?

Nocturnal bruxism is a sleep-related movement disorder. Daytime bruxism is most often a result of stress, anxiety, or habit. Depending on the cause and the results of your examination, your dentist will likely recommend one or more of the following treatment options:

  • STRESS MANAGEMENT
    Since research suggests that nearly 70 percent of the condition is a direct result of stress or anxiety, stress management techniques can reduce the frequency or severity. Some of the most commonly advised methods of stress reduction include meditation, yoga, and biofeedback.
  • MEDICATION
     Although medications are not an effective treatment on their own, if clenching and grinding are causing considerable jaw pain, your practitioner may recommend the short-term use of a muscle relaxer. If it might be a side effect of prescription medication, your health care provider may want to adjust your dosage or prescribe an alternative.
  • DENTAL CORRECTION
    If bruxism has caused enough wear to interfere with your ability to chew, your dentist may recommend reshaping the chewing surfaces of your teeth. When bruxing results in damage or sensitivity, dental crowns may provide welcome relief. For bruxism resulting from misalignment, a consultation could be your first step to managing bruxism and alleviating symptoms.
  • A NIGHT GUARD OR DENTAL SPLINT
    Bite splints and night guards are dental appliances designed to minimize the damage caused by clenching, gnashing, and grinding. Commonly used for TMJ, a dental splint will ease muscle tension and stabilize your jaw. A custom night guard creates a physical barrier that protects your teeth from further damage. Many dental appliances designed to protect teeth from the effects of bruxism are similar in comfort and appearance to the clear silicone trays commonly used to straighten teeth.

Bruxism can cause tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, broken restorations, and more. If you suspect your symptoms are caused by teeth grinding, consider scheduling an appointment. While it is not likely to resolve on its own, our team will recommend the best combination of treatment options to restore and preserve the health and appearance of your smile.

Schedule a routine exam with Fair lakes Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today. Our team of dental professionals is highly skilled in assessing your oral and overall health and is happy to answer any questions you may have. You never know what a dentist can tell. Visit us online or call  703-273-4505