The term “bruxism” refers to the habit some people have of clenching or grinding both consciously and unconsciously teeth. Bruxism occurs in both adults and children.
Causes
The main cause of bruxism is currently the psychological stress, many people suffer from stress nowadays. In many cases the person suffering this problem is not even aware of it because clench or grind your teeth while sleeping. Typically, they find out the problem for the people who sleep near them.
Other factors that may influence the problem are poor tooth position or the position it during sleep.
Symptoms
There are many symptoms associated with bruxism. Although many people think that clenching or grinding teeth is not a major drawback is the fact that it can cause serious problems such as tooth wear, fractures, caries, etc..
The most common symptoms of bruxism include:
- Teeth exploded, broken or worn
- Sore mouth, especially around the jaw and articulation
- Sounds of “gnashing of teeth” while sleeping
- Frequent headaches
- Damage on the gums
- Hypersensitivity of the teeth to cold and heat
Treatment
To address the problem of bruxism dentists recommend wear a splint in the mouth at night to protect the teeth and relax a little jaw joint. The splint need to be used it regularly.
Apart from this it is also important to reduce anxiety and stress through relaxation techniques, hot baths before bed, exercise regularly, etc..
Whenever possible we must try to be aware of the problem and try to keep the upper and lower teeth and jaw relaxed separated.