Bruxism (grinding of teeth): symptoms, causes, medication, etc. & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is bruxism (bruxomania)?

Bruxomania or also known as bruxism is a condition when you grind, grind, grind, or grind your teeth. If you have this condition, you may subconsciously grind your teeth during the day or night while sleeping (sleep bruxomania).

Sleep bruxomania included in sleep-related movement disorders. People who grind their teeth or grind their teeth during sleep are more likely to have other sleep disorders, such as snoring and pauses in breathing (sleep apnea).

How common is bruxism?

About 15-33% of children grind their teeth. Children who grit their teeth tend to do so at two peak times - when the baby teeth grow and when the teeth remain. Many children have given up the habit of grinding their teeth after these two sets of teeth appear perfectly. Generally, children grind their teeth more often during sleep than when they wake up.

However, this condition can be treated by reducing the risk factors. Talk to your doctor for more information.

Signs and Symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of bruxism?

There are various signs and symptoms of bruxomania. Here are some of the main signs and symptoms of this condition, such as:

• Grind or grind your teeth hard enough to wake the sleeping partner
• Teeth that are flat, cracked, or loose
• Tooth enamel is damaged, exposing the inner lining of the tooth
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Tired or tight jaw muscles
• Pain like earache, although not a problem with the ear
• Dull headache originating from the temples
• Damage from chewing on the inside of the cheek
• Indentation on the tongue

When should I see a doctor?

You should contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Your teeth are damaged or sensitive
• Pain in the jaw, face or ears
• Another complaint that you produce the sound of teeth grinding while sleeping
• You have a jaw that locks and it doesn't open or close completely

If you notice that your child is grinding their teeth - or has signs or symptoms of bruxism - be sure to mention them when you see a dentist.

If you have any signs or symptoms above or any other questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.

Cause

What causes bruxomania?

Doctors are still uncertain about what causes bruxism. Possible physical or psychological causes can include:

• Emotions, such as anxiety, stress, anger, frustration, or feeling tense
• Personality types that are aggressive, competitive, or hyperactive
• Abnormal location of the upper and lower teeth (malocclusion)
• Other sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea
• Response to pain from earache or teething (in children)
• Gastric acid rises to the esophagus
• An uncommon side effect of some psychiatric drugs, such as phenothiazines or certain antidepressants
• A coping strategy or a habit of focusing
• Complications that come from disorders such as Huntington's or Parkinson's disease

Triggers

What increases my risk for bruxism?

There are many risk factors for bruxomania, namely:

• Stress. Increased anxiety or stress, as well as anger and frustration, can cause teeth grinding that you may not be aware of.
• Age. Bruxomania is common in children, but usually goes away on its own in adolescence.
• Personality type. Having an aggressive, competitive, or hyperactive personality can increase your risk of bruxism.
• Stimulant substances. Smoking tobacco, consuming caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, or illegal drugs such as methamphetamine or ecstasy can increase the risk of bruxism.

Diagnosis & Treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is bruxism diagnosed?

If your doctor suspects you have bruxism, he or she will determine the cause by asking questions about oral health conditions, medications, daily routine and sleep habits.

To evaluate the extent of bruxomania, the dentist may look at:

• Pain in the jaw muscles
• Obvious dental abnormalities, such as a broken or loose tooth or poor tooth location
• Damage to the teeth, bones and under the cheeks, usually with the aid of an X-ray

Dental examinations can detect other disorders that cause similar jaw or ear pain, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, dental problems, or other ear infections.

How is bruxomania treated?

Bruxomania is not a serious disorder, but if left untreated, it can lead to bigger problems. Tooth decay can occur if this condition is severe. Your doctor can prescribe medication to relieve pain or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers. You can also apply hot or ice packs to the affected area. Treatment options for stopping bruxism include:

• Mouth guard
• Splint
• Orthodontic adjustment
• Lifestyle changes
• Relaxation techniques

Home Remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat bruxism?

This condition can be prevented and treated with a healthy lifestyle, especially if you are at high risk, it is important to do, such as:

• If stress is causing you to grind your teeth, ask your doctor about options for reducing stress. Taking stress counseling, starting an exercise program, seeing a physical therapist or getting a prescription for muscle relaxants are some of the options that can be offered.
• If sleep disorders are the cause, correcting them can reduce or eliminate the habit of grinding your teeth.
• Other tips to help you stop grinding your teeth include avoiding foods and drinks that contain caffeine, such as colas, chocolate, and coffee.
• Avoid alcohol. Tooth grinding tends to get worse after alcohol consumption.
• Avoid chewing gum, as it causes the jaw muscles to grind
• Train yourself not to grind your teeth. If you notice that you are grinding your teeth during the day, place the tip of your tongue between your teeth. This can train the jaw muscles to relax.
• Relax your jaw muscles at night by placing a warm cloth on your cheek in front of the earlobes

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.