Teeth Grinding Explained
Bruxism, or teeth grinding as it is more commonly known, is an oral parafunctional activity. Although sometimes incorrectly cited as a reflex chewing activity, it is actually classified as a habit. Researchers classify bruxism as habitual behavior and a sleep disorder. Typically occurring nocturnally, it’s a habit that can occur during waking hours as well. Many who suffer from bruxism may not even be aware they have the condition; in fact, only 5% of bruxers actually present with any symptoms. Here we discuss some of the signs, symptoms and factors associated with the condition of bruxism.
Triggers – Stress is the number one trigger, however digestive ailments and heredity are also thought to contribute to bruxism.
Signs – Although the bruxer may be unaware of the condition, jaw pain, headaches, abnormal wear patterns in the teeth and tooth fractures can all be signs that someone is a habitual teeth grinder. Dental damage generally occurs over time. Bruxism is the leading cause of occlusal trauma and a significant cause of tooth loss and gum recession.
Effects – Teeth may move against each other laterally with a side-to-side motion, involving the temperomandibular joints, leading to TMJ dysfunction. Teeth affected by previous drilling or decay are particularly susceptible to collapsing from the cyclic pressure exerted during bruxism episodes. This can lead to costly procedures such as root canal treatments and replacement crowns.
Symptoms – There are a number of symptoms associated with bruxism. They include anxiety, stress, tension, depression, earache, eating disorders, headache, insomnia and painful jaws.
Associated factors – Medical disorders such as OCD and Huntington’s and Parkinson’s diseases can be contributing factors. The use of stimulant drugs and SSRIs can also lead to excessive teeth grinding, as can high intake of caffeine, heavy consumption of alcohol, smoking, other sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or snoring, and a hypersensitivity to dopamine receptors in the brain.
Treatment – Dental guards, or splints, can be custom fit by a dentist to the shape of the teeth from a mold. The dentist will measure and fit the mouth guard, to be worn at night, and provide ongoing supervision for its usage. Although not a cure for bruxism, treatment goals will include prevention of damage to temperomandibular joints, minimization of gradual changes to teeth positions that lead to occlusion, prevention of tooth damage, and enabling the user to judge bruxism patterns by examination of patterns made in the surface of the splint. Awareness of the habit can help reduce the frequency of bruxism episodes. Biofeedback is also available, but has been met with mixed results.
Bruxism, while not uncommon, is a sleep disorder that can lead to a number of physical ailments. Leaving the condition untreated can result in significant damage to teeth and gums and result in expensive dental procedures. Recognition of symptoms and early treatment is the best defense to avoid such issues.