Causes of Teeth Grinding
While the exact reasons for bruxism are not fully understood, it is likely caused by a combination of physical, psychological, and genetic factors. A common cause of grinding and clenching in adults is stress. Misalignment of your teeth can also result in bruxism. There are several risk factors for bruxism, such as:
- Consumption of tobacco, caffeine, or alcohol
- Negative feelings, such as stress, tension, and anger
- Medical conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD)
- Sleep-related disorders, such as sleep apnea
Bruxism is especially common in young children and usually resolves before adulthood. Of course, adults can develop the condition as well.
What Are the Effects of Bruxism?
In some cases, grinding and clenching are so mild that treatment is not required. However, the constant pressure exerted on your teeth and jaw muscles can lead to serious health concerns. The consequences of untreated bruxism can include:
- Damage to teeth, restorations, and the jaw
- Severe facial or jaw pain
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder
In some cases, the effects of bruxism fade as soon as the condition is treated. By lessening pressure on your teeth, for example, you can reduce or eliminate issues such as sensitivity and pain. However, damage to your teeth can have long-term, or even permanent, effects and require additional dental treatments in the future.
Bruxism Treatment Options
For some patients, reducing their stress levels can provide sufficient relief from grinding and clenching.
Your dentist can examine your oral health and determine the optimal treatment plan for you. For some patients, reducing their stress levels can provide sufficient relief from grinding and clenching. However, in many cases, treatment is required.
Oral Appliance Therapy
There are a few ways to protect your teeth from the forces of grinding and clenching. Your dentist may recommend a custom night guard to wear while you sleep. This treatment is especially helpful if your bruxism symptoms mainly occur at night. In addition, splinting can redistribute the force of your bite by connecting multiple teeth together. Your dentist can place a temporary or permanent splint depending on your needs.
Orthodontics or Bite Adjustments
When your teeth do not fit together properly, you unconsciously adjust your bite throughout the day in an attempt to find a comfortable position. This process can cause you to grind or clench. If your symptoms are due to misalignment, orthodontic treatment or another form of bite adjustment can help reduce or eliminate bruxism.
Medications
If your bruxism does not respond to other treatments, your dentist may recommend you take a muscle relaxant before bed. Additionally, if your clenching or grinding is related to anxiety, your doctor may prescribe a medication to relieve stress. Bruxism is also a side effect of certain medications. Switching to a different prescription may alleviate your issues.
BOTOX® Injections
There is some evidence to suggest that injection of BOTOX, a form of botulinum toxin, can help patients with severe bruxism that does not respond to other treatments. Since BOTOX limits muscle movement, it may be able to help reduce your symptoms. BOTOX injections are a temporary solution for bruxism and will require ongoing treatment.
Treating Underlying Conditions
Bruxism caused by another medical condition, such as sleep apnea or GERD, may resolve by simply treating the underlying condition. Be sure to provide your dentist with your full medical history so they can identify possible causes of your clenching or grinding.
How to Prevent Bruxism
There are a few home-care techniques that can help prevent clenching and grinding, including:
- Stress reduction and anxiety management techniques, such as meditation
- Limiting or avoiding caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evenings
- Special exercises to ease jaw tension
- Developing a regular sleeping schedule
These methods may not work for everyone, especially if your bruxism is severe. Your dentist can evaluate your oral and overall health and recommend solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Protect Your Smile
Bruxism can have damaging effects but the condition can be treated. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about how you can find relief.
