Bruxism is a term that refers to jaw clenching or teeth grinding. It can happen during the day but is more common at night which can make it difficult to recognize, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. Though bruxism can be okay if it is not a frequent occurrence, the effects of bruxism can be extremely detrimental in the long run if it happens often enough. Understanding why it happens and addressing it today can help keep it from becoming a major concern.
How is it Harmful?
“Over time, the constant pressure wears down tooth enamel, leading to chips, cracks and sensitivity. It can also strain the jaw joints and muscles, causing soreness, headaches and tightness that makes everyday things — like chewing, talking or even smiling — uncomfortable,” according to Dr. Nicole Mullally, owner of Studio32 Orthodontics. In some cases, your jaw can lock and not allow you to open or close it all the way. You can also develop sleep problems and require surgery in more serious cases, according to Mayo Clinic. Bruxism can be diagnosed through a physical examination by a dentist or orthodontist in combination with a description of your symptoms. A sleep study may also be necessary. If you have concerns about jaw clenching or teeth grinding, speak with your dentist.
What Are the Causes?
There are several factors that can contribute to bruxism. Anxiety and stress, age (children may experience bruxism more frequently than adults), assertive or competitive personality types, family history and other conditions like sleep apnea can be factors. Chewing your tongue, lips, cheeks or gum frequently during the day can contribute as well. Additionally, caffeine, alcohol, tobacco or recreational drugs can lead to bruxism, according to Mayo Clinic.
What Can You do to Help?
Overall, Dr. Mullally suggests preventative measures and self-reminders. “If you catch yourself holding tension in your jaw, try to reset: relax your face, rest your tongue gently on the roof of your mouth and keep your lips closed without your teeth touching.” She also notes the importance of being mindful of things like stress and posture and managing them throughout the day. If you clench your jaw or grind your teeth at night, a mouth guard may be helpful. Similar to a retainer, a mouth guard goes over your teeth but hooks your upper and lower jaw together so that it remains still and relaxed. Helping to reduce your stress during the day through “therapies like meditation, exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy” can be beneficial for both daytime and nighttime bruxism. Other treatments include taking a muscle relaxant before bed or Botox® injections for severe cases, according to Cleveland Clinic. Johns Hopkins Medicine also recommends keeping a regular sleep schedule, refraining from naps, exercising, not drinking caffeine after lunch or alcohol too close to bedtime, refraining from watching TV in bed and staying off devices at least one hour before bed.
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