Bruxism is a condition whose main symptom is teeth grinding (teeth grinding) or, simply, jaw clenching. Many times, bruxism remains undiagnosed until the appearance of dental problems on the background of this disorder, as the repeated rubbing of the teeth against each other can lead to damage to the enamel and the appearance of cracks or tooth decay.
Bruxism falls into the category of oral parafunctional activities (those that do not have a functional role, such as speaking, mastication or swallowing). Other similar problems are also included in this class, such as biting the lips or cheeks, redness of objects or nails, etc.
Types of bruxism
Depending on the moment of the day when it appears, bruxism is divided into two categories:
- nocturnal bruxism – it is the most common type of bruxism, but also the most difficult to diagnose because the affected people are only very rarely aware of the symptoms. There are, however, situations when these are intentional by family members who hear the noise produced during teeth-grinding
- daytime bruxism – is less common and is usually triggered by certain stressful situations or periods marked by anxious states. The advantage of this type of bruxism is that the patient can realize, most of the time, that something is wrong and can request help from the doctor
Causes and risk factors
The triggering factors of bruxism can vary from one case to another, but among the most frequently encountered, are:
- anxious states, stressful periods, mental or emotional tension and any other intense experiences, difficult to manage
- chronic fatigue or insomnia, which can generate the previously mentioned states of tension
- the change of teeth and the formation of the permanent dentition
- incorrect dental occlusion – when the alignment of the dental arches is not appropriate, patients are often exposed to the risk of developing manifestations of bruxism
- administration of certain medications, such as antidepressants
- hyperactive disorders, such as ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), Parkinson’s disease or epilepsy
- vicious habits (smoking, alcohol or drug abuse)
- certain muscle or facial nerve dysfunctions
- genetic factors – sometimes, bruxism is inherited to the next generations
Bruxism in children
Statistically speaking, bruxism occurs more often among children and adolescents, being, therefore, closely related to periods of growth. In children, the grinding of the teeth at night can be due to the change of the temporary dentition to the permanent one, in which case it ends up disappearing by itself, with time.
As in the case of adults, sometimes bruxism in children can be caused by a tense mental state or by certain emotional traumas. In this case, it is recommended to try to treat the triggering factors, to obtain, in the end, gratifying results in terms of bruxism as well.
When it remains undiagnosed for a long time, bruxism can cause a series of problems, some of which end up being difficult to treat:
- cracks in the dental enamel or even breaking the dental crowns
- tooth decay developed due to enamel damage
- dental sensitivity
- headaches
- pain in the muscles of the face
- joint problems in the jaws – the patient can no longer close or open the mouth completely, or perform these actions with difficulty
- weakness in the mandible
Even if, in essence, the complications generated by bruxism do not present a high degree of danger for the general state of health of the affected patients, they certainly cause discomfort. Dental problems, however, can quickly evolve into really dangerous situations, so it is recommended to consult the dentist once every six months, for preventive purposes.
Treatment
The therapeutic approach in the case of patients suffering from bruxism involves treating both the causes that led to this disorder, as well as the complications caused by bruxism:
- treating anxious states, insomnia or other emotional disorders, when they are responsible for the appearance of bruxism. The treatment can be medicinal, natural or, if the respective disorders manifest themselves over a longer period, the support of a psychotherapist can be called upon;
- mouthguards can be a promising help for patients with bruxism, as they prevent damage to tooth enamel due to bruxism. A mouthpiece is a device made of a soft, biocompatible plastic, made in relation to the patient’s dental arches. The dentist will take an impression of the patient’s jaws, following which, based on the impressions, the dental technician will make the mouthpieces;
- improving the dental occlusion, either with the help of prosthetic works or by using a dental appliance (fixed or mobile);
- the administration of drugs with an anti-inflammatory effect, to reduce the pain caused by bruxism, this being, rather, a symptomatic treatment, which does not act on the causes that triggered the bruxism.
Prevention
Bruxism can also be prevented. Whether we are talking about the prevention of this disorder in general, or whether the aim is to prevent the recurrence of bruxism episodes, there are several methods by which it can be kept at a distance:
- improving the quality of sleep, by adopting a healthy routine every night (sleep hygiene), which involves: avoiding the use of electronic devices at least 30 minutes before going to bed, avoiding the consumption of alcohol or caffeine-based drinks in the second part of the day, as well as creating an environment favorable to sleep;
- reducing, as much as possible, the level of stress;
- consulting the dentist at least twice a year, to constantly monitor the state of health of the teeth;
- avoiding the consumption of chewing gum in excess, as this contributes to the stimulation of the mandibular muscles.
Regardless of the causes that cause it, bruxism is a medical problem that generates discomfort and, over time, can endanger dental health.
The prevention of dental problems arising as a result of bruxism is particularly useful and requires periodic visits to the dentist, as well as the adoption of an appropriate lifestyle.
