Your Guide to Bruxism and How to Prevent it

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common habit that often occurs during sleep. It involves the involuntary clenching and grinding of teeth, which can have a significant impact on oral health. Individuals who grind their teeth may experience painful jaw muscles, damaged teeth, and sensitivity to hot or cold foods.

In this blog, we'll explore the common causes of teeth grinding, its effects on oral health, tips to stop, available treatment options, lifestyle changes that can help prevent teeth grinding, and the long-term consequences of sleep bruxism.

What is Teeth Grinding?

Teeth grinding is a condition that affects many people, with studies suggesting that about 8-10% of adults and 15-20% of children grind their teeth. While it can occur during waking hours, it most commonly happens during sleep, making it difficult for individuals to be aware of the habit until it causes noticeable symptoms or dental problems. The continuous grinding and clenching of teeth can lead to various oral health issues, including painful jaw muscles and damaged teeth.

Understanding the causes and effects of teeth grinding is crucial in finding ways to manage and prevent this condition.

Why Do People Grind Their Teeth At Night? Physical and Psychological Causes

Teeth grinding can have various causes, both psychological and physical. Psychological issues, such as stress and anxiety, are common triggers for teeth grinding. When individuals are under stress, they may unknowingly clench or grind their teeth as a way to cope with tension. Additionally, physical factors like a misaligned bite or growing teeth can contribute to this habit. If the upper and lower teeth do not fit together properly, it can lead to excessive grinding as the body tries to find a comfortable position for the jaw.

Some other causes of bruxism include:

Illnesses and medications
lifestyle factors, including concentration, dehydration, and an improper diet
eruption of baby teeth
alcohol and caffeine consumption
genetics

Identifying the underlying cause of teeth grinding is crucial in determining the most effective approach to treatment.

Effects of Teeth Grinding on Oral Health

Teeth grinding can have several negative effects on oral health. It can cause painful jaw muscles, leading to discomfort and difficulty in opening and closing the mouth. The continuous grinding and clenching of teeth can result in tooth damage, such as fractures, chips, and wear.

Individuals who grind their teeth may also experience headaches and tooth sensitivity to certain foods and drinks. If left untreated, teeth grinding can have long-term consequences, including tooth pain and tooth erosion.

Tooth Pain

Tooth pain can occur when the enamel is worn down or when the teeth become sensitive due to the constant grinding and pressure.

Tooth Erosion

Tooth erosion refers to the gradual wearing away of the tooth structure, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and an increased risk of tooth decay.

Other Effects

Over time, excessive grinding may cause teeth to become loose and unstable, leading to the need for dental interventions such as tooth extractions or dentures. By understanding the potential long-term consequences of teeth grinding, individuals can take the necessary steps to manage and prevent this habit.

How Do I Know If I Grind My Teeth at Night?

There are several indicators that you or your child suffer from bruxism. Common signs on the condition include:

Poor sleep
Waking up with a headache or tender jaw
Teeth feel or look worn down
Heightened sensitivity when eating or drinking
Clicking jaw
Regular snoring
Loose teeth
Tooth marks on your tongue
Facial stiffness
Damaged tooth enamel

How to Stop Teeth Grinding

There are several strategies that can help individuals stop teeth grinding. Some of those are as follows:

Stress and Anxiety Management

By addressing and managing stress or anxiety triggers, individuals can reduce the likelihood of teeth grinding during sleep. Techniques such as deep breathing and meditation have been linked to a reduction in bruxism . In addition, regular physical activity can help reduce overall stress levels and promote relaxation in the body.

By implementing stress management strategies into daily life, individuals can reduce the likelihood of teeth grinding as a response to stress. Regular exercise and physical activity can also reduce tension in the jaw muscles and promote relaxation. Engaging in activities such as yoga, swimming, or walking can help release muscle tension throughout the body, including the jaw.

Adopting a Healthy Sleep Schedule

Promoting good sleep habits, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine, can also help reduce teeth grinding, as it encourages your body to wind down and relax.

Using a Night Guard

Using sleep mouthguards or dental splints can protect the teeth from grinding during sleep. These devices create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing them from grinding together.

Decrease Caffeine Intake

Both caffeine and alcohol can affect sleep quality and increase muscle tension, increasing the likelihood of grinding your teeth.

Keep Hydrated

Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to decrease teeth grinding at night.

Treatment Options for Teeth Grinding

Various treatment options are available for individuals experiencing bruxism. Dental treatments, such as dental reshaping or orthodontic treatment, can help correct misaligned teeth and improve the bite, thereby reducing the condition. By adjusting the position of the teeth and improving the alignment, you may remove pressure and strain on your jaw, minimising the grinding habit.

Medications for symptom relief, such as pain relievers or muscle relaxants, can also be prescribed in certain cases. These medications can help manage the pain and discomfort associated with teeth grinding. Additionally, mouthpieces or mouthguards, custom-made by dentists, are commonly used to prevent teeth grinding and protect the teeth from further damage.

Addressing underlying conditions, such as sleep disorders or anxiety, can also be an important part of the treatment approach. By identifying and treating the root cause of teeth grinding, individuals can effectively manage and reduce the habit. For example, if a person is diagnosed with sleep apnea, treating the sleep disorder through the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine may alleviate the grinding habit.

It is recommended to consult with a dental professional for a comprehensive evaluation and to determine the most suitable treatment option. An expert can assess the severity of your teeth grinding habit and recommend an appropriate solution.

Get on Top of Teeth Grinding Early

Regular dental monitoring, especially in children, can help identify and address teeth grinding in its early stages. Dental professionals can detect signs of teeth grinding during routine dental examinations and provide guidance and interventions to manage the habit. While many children may outgrow the habit of teeth grinding, dental intervention may be necessary if it persists and causes problems. Early intervention can help prevent further damage to the teeth and jaw and promote healthy oral development.

We Can Help

By addressing underlying factors that contribute to bruxism, implementing tips to stop teeth grinding, and making necessary lifestyle changes, individuals can minimise its occurrence and protect their oral health. Remember, a healthy smile starts with taking care of your teeth and promptly addressing any concerns.

At Hamilton Dental & Prosthetic Lab, our team specialises in the identification and treatment of teeth grinding. If you believe you or a loved one are living with this condition, reach out to us, and we'll do our very best to cater to your needs.

Why Do People Grind Their Teeth in Their Sleep? Causes, Effects, and Solutions