Dental Problems

Learn More About Bruxism

Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, which can cause pain. It can also cause tooth wear and fractures if left unaddressed. Royal Dental Spa offers treatment options to help relieve symptoms from this uncomfortable disorder.
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Dental Problems

Dental Services That Can Address Bruxism

Royal Dental Spa offers dental services to help manage the grinding and clenching that could be causing damage to your teeth.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About
Bruxism

Although the exact cause of bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) is unknown, medical experts believe that it can be related to a combination of physical, psychological, and hereditary factors.

  • Stress and anxiety.
    At times, stress and anxiety can manifest in physical ways. Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can signify underlying stress and anxiety. It can lead to long-term damage to your teeth if not addressed early on.

  • Sleep problems.
    Bruxism while sleeping is usually triggered by poor-quality sleep. If you have issues such as snoring or obstructive sleep apnoea, it’s likely contributing to your bruxism.

  • Taking certain medicines.
    Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are quite common medications used to manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Unfortunately, an unwanted side effect of SSRI use can be bruxism, or teeth grinding. The exact relationship between SSRIs and bruxism is not fully understood, however it is believed that SSRIs influence the activity of proteins that control muscle tone in the jaw leading to excessive tension in the muscles and contributing to bruxism.

  • Habits and lifestyle.
    Grinding your teeth at night could be due to certain lifestyle habits like smoking, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol or caffeine and using recreational drugs.

  • Genetics.
    Bruxism may run in the family and may be in your genes. If you have been diagnosed with bruxism, it is likely that other members of your family also experience this condition.

  • Other disorders.
    One potential cause could be associated with mental and medical disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, dementia, gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), epilepsy and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Bruxism is often subconscious, but symptoms like waking up with a dull headache or sore jaw may indicate that you’re grinding your teeth at night. Also, you may notice you have worn tooth enamel, fractured, chipped, or loose teeth, tooth pain, or sensitivity. Family members might also pick up on the grinding sound, so pay close attention and don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns with your dentist.

Managing bruxism can help prevent tooth damage and avoid costly dental treatments. It can also relieve muscle pain and reduce headaches. In addition, you can also enjoy a good night’s sleep and wake up in the morning well rested.

To relax your muscles, try resting one side of your face on a heating pad. Apply the warm compress for 15 minutes, then switch sides and repeat. It’s also important to mind your mental health, since stress can be an underlying factor in causing bruxism.

Consider introducing some relaxation techniques into your daily routine, such as taking warm baths and listening to music. It’s also recommended to avoid stimulating substances, like coffee, in the evening and practising good sleeping habits.

While most children outgrow it and avoid any long-term dental damage, those who suffer from chronic bruxism may experience issues like jaw pain, headaches, and even damaged teeth. While some cases may improve naturally over time, it’s recommended to seek professional help from your dentist to protect your oral health and uncover any underlying causes.

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