Bruxism: Causes, Types & Prevention

Common Symptoms of Bruxism

Bruxism can manifest through several noticeable symptoms:

• Tooth Pain: Persistent pain in the teeth due to excessive grinding or clenching.
• Jaw Pain: Discomfort or soreness in the jaw muscles.
• Headaches: Frequent morning headaches are common among those with bruxism.
• Worn Tooth Enamel: Noticeable wear on the surfaces of the teeth.
• Sensitive Teeth: Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.

Causes of Bruxism

There are many reasons why a person may grind their teeth. Several factors can also increase a person's risk of bruxism, including:

• Age: Children are more likely to grind their teeth than adults. Sleep-related bruxism affects 15% to 40% of children versus 8% to 10% of adults.
• Emotions: Frustration, stress, tension, anxiety, and repressed anger are potential culprits.
• Genetics: Bruxism runs in families. Children are nearly twice as likely to develop it if a parent has it.
• Medication: Certain medications used to treat psychiatric disorders, including SSRIs like Prozac, Zoloft, and Paxil, may trigger bruxism.
• Personality: Traits such as neuroticism have been associated with bruxism.
• Substance Use: Use of cigarettes, caffeine, alcohol, and recreational drugs can increase risk.

Additionally, bruxism has been linked to medical conditions like:

• ADHD
• Dementia
• Epilepsy
• GERD
• Night terrors
• Parkinson's disease
• Sleep apnea and other sleep-related disorders

Reason Behind Bruxism

Understanding the reasons behind bruxism is crucial for effective management. Key reasons include:

• Psychological Factors: Stress and anxiety
• Physical Factors: Misalignment of teeth or jaw issues

When to See The Specialist for Bruxism

See a dentist immediately if you experience:

• Difficulty eating or opening your mouth
• Persistent jaw pain or headaches
• No improvement with self-care after several weeks

TMJ disorders may require X-rays, a mouthguard, or other interventions. Surgery is a last resort.

Diagnosis of Bruxism

Bruxism is frequently diagnosed during a dental exam. The dentist may:

• Check for worn or broken teeth
• Look for damage to the inside of the cheek
• Assess the tenderness of jaw muscles
• Examine the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
• Take an X-ray to check for underlying bone damage

Long-Term Effects of Bruxism

Untreated bruxism can result in serious long-term consequences affecting oral health, facial structure, and quality of life:

• Chronic Tooth Wear and Damage: Increases the risk of cavities, infections, and tooth loss.
• Tooth Sensitivity and Decay: Erosion of enamel leads to exposed dentin and heightened sensitivity.
• Gum Recession and Periodontal Issues: Increased pressure on gums can loosen teeth and worsen gum disease.
• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD): Leads to jaw pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the jaw.
• Facial Muscle Pain and Jaw Dysfunction: Causes long-term fatigue, soreness, and misalignment.
• Headaches and Migraines: Muscle tension radiates to the temples and neck.
• Sleep Disruption: Nighttime grinding impacts sleep quality.
• Changes in Facial Appearance: Alters jawline due to worn-down teeth and muscle overuse.

Complications of Untreated Bruxism

Complications from untreated bruxism include:

• Tooth Damage: Sensitivity, fractures, thinning, or tooth loss.
• Jaw Problems (TMJ Dysfunction): Pain, clicking, or locking of the jaw.
• Headaches and Migraines: Tension headaches, especially around the temples.
• Jaw and Muscle Pain: Fatigue, tightness, and pain in the face, neck, or shoulders.
• Shifting or Looseness of Teeth: Pressure from grinding can lead to gum recession and tooth shifting.
• Sleep Disturbances: Grinding noise or discomfort disrupts sleep.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Enamel loss exposes dentin, increasing sensitivity.
• Damage to Dental Restorations: Fillings, crowns, and veneers may crack or break.
• Aesthetic Changes: Alters teeth shape and facial profile.

Treatment and Management of Bruxism

Managing bruxism involves several approaches:

• Bruxism Mouth Guard: Custom-fitted guards protect teeth and reduce grinding impact.
• Stress Management: Relaxation exercises or therapy to manage stress.
• Dental Correction: Orthodontic treatments to fix misaligned teeth or bite issues.
• Medication: In some cases, muscle relaxants or medications may help reduce tension.

Preventions of Bruxism

While no treatment can completely stop bruxism, preventive measures include:

• Wearing a night guard to protect teeth and reduce pressure
• Managing stress through counseling, exercise, or relaxation techniques
• Reviewing medications with a doctor for potential side effects
• Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco
• Not chewing on pens, pencils, or excessive gum
• Training yourself to avoid clenching, rest your tongue behind your upper front teeth