Bruxism: What are the consequences and how can I treat it?
What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the tightening of the teeth, recurrent and in some cases exaggerated, which can also cause the teeth to grind by the force of friction between them. This clenching can occur for various reasons including the execution of some contact sports or that require physical effort, presence of acute or chronic stress peaks, alterations in the sleep cycle, alterations in the bite, respiratory problems or bad sleeping habits. This tightening will result in damage to the oral cavity and pain in peripheral areas such as the head and neck.
What are the Consequences of Bruxism?
Bruxism will eventually cause the teeth to lose the support of healthy tissue causing mobility in the teeth and promoting tooth loss, as well as wearing down the enamel on the surfaces that are rubbed. Bruxism may even result in fracture of pre-existing restorations or teeth.
Physical manifestations of bruxism in peripheral areas outside the mouth include: pain in the muscles that are responsible for chewing, pain in the head or neck, and headaches. A patient suffering from bruxism may manifest chronic fatigue in the jaw area especially upon awakening.
What are the treatment options?
Bruxism can best be alleviated using splints or intraoral devices such as night guards that protect the teeth. These devices can be used during the day or night: their indicated use depending on the specific diagnosis in each case.
What advantages do night guards offer?
– Relax the musculature
– Physical barrier protecting the teeth and jaw
– Normalize the propitiation of the periodontal ligament
– Allow the mandibular condyle to be placed in the most appropriate position
Night Guard for Protection for Bruxism.
