ABOUT THE DISEASE
Bruxism is the medical term for involuntary grinding of teeth and clenching the jaw, commonly seen in kids. Although it can happen during day or night, but more often happens subconsciously during deep sleep phase or when under stress.
SYMPTOMS
- • Teeth grinding or clenching, which may be loud enough to awaken ones sleep partner.
- • Flattened, fractured, chipped or loose teeth.
- • Worn tooth enamel.
- • Increased tooth sensitivity.
- • Jaw or face pain.
- • Tired or tight jaw muscles.
- • Earache.
- • Dull headache.
CAUSES
The causes of bruxism arent always known, but its usually linked to other factors like :
- Anxiety/ stress.
- Anger/ frustration/tension.
- Aggressive, competitive or hyperactive personality type.
- Malocclusion, abnormal alignment of upper and lower teeth.
- Sleep problems, such as sleep apnea.
- Side effect of some psychiatric medications, such as phenothiazines/antidepressants.
- Complication of Huntingtons disease or Parkinsons disease.
DIAGNOSIS
- Clinical dental evaluation
- Dental X-Ray
TREATMENT METHODS
In many cases, treatment isnt necessary. Many kids outgrow bruxism without treatment, and many adults dont grind or clench their teeth badly enough to require therapy. However, if the problem is severe, treatment options include :
- Dental Splints and mouth guards
- Dental correction
- Stress management therapy
- Behavior therapy
- Medications: like Muscle relaxants, Botox injections
You may also like to learn about:
Toothache
Anxiety
Ear infection
Stress
Sleep apnea
Huntingtons disease