Causes and symptoms of teeth grinding
The role of skull and neck muscles involves allowing the orofacial system to function. Bruxism is characterized by the lack of muscle functionality which places it among so-called oral parafunctions.
The most common causes of bruxism are high levels of stress and anxiety. Reaction to these negative stimuli is usually manifested during the night. One of these irrational reactions is teeth grinding.
People who suffer from this condition are rarely conscious of their teeth activities during the night. Those are usually their spouses that tell them they have a problem, but sometimes also frequent awakening due to headache and pain in jaws.
However, anxiety can be so overwhelming that it causes teeth grinding even in the daytime. In that case, it is of paramount importance to find out the causes of intense anxiety and neurological disorders.
This requires an interdisciplinary approach to finding a solution to this problem. During the dental check-up, the most convenient treatment will be prescribed. If necessary, the patient will be referred to a neurologist or psychotherapist.
What else can cause bruxism?
Besides psychological problems, teeth grinding can be caused by organic factors. One of them is the lack of magnesium which is important for the proper functioning of neurological and muscle systems. If the body does not get enough dose of this mineral on a daily basis, it can lead to metabolism disorder and organ dysfunction.
Alcoholic beverages, coffee, and cigarettes are the most common groceries detrimental to the normal functioning of an organism. In particular, they have negative effects on the neurological system. Greater consumption of nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol may cause bruxism at least to intensify, if not to occur.
Abnormal occlusion (bite) due to misalignment of upper and lower teeth may also lead to bruxism. Malloclussion appears both in children and adults and it is treated with orthodontic therapy.
Teeth appearance affected by bruxism
People who have suffered from this temporomandibular disorder for a long time, commonly feel pain in the temples, jaws, and ears. In addition, they feel psychological pressure because their facial appearance is disturbed.
If the grinding becomes persistent, it will definitely wear the teeth down. Forced jaw clenching and intense friction can damage fillings and gums, and cause enamel erosion. Furthermore, it creates sharp edges and causes teeth wearing.
Crown fracture is usually an indication of a broken tooth. This requires teeth replacement (crowns, veneers, inlay, or onlay) for the reestablishment of disturbed jaw functionality.
Bruxism- Is there a solution to teeth grinding?
Dr. Minić Dental Team will help you protect your teeth and efficiently treat the problem of bruxism.
The placement of mouth guard, so-called occlusal splints, may prevent further damages of the teeth and jaws caused by friction. If necessary, the dentist will implement drug therapy to relieve the pain that the patient feels. Injection of analgesics and botulinum toxin facilitates pain alleviation and relaxation.
Night protection with occlusal splints is a good prevention od dental tissue damage. This special device is made after taking the teeth impression. Our clinic uses materials of the renowned brands that meet the highest health and functional standards.
Splints are commonly placed during the night, but sometimes they have to be worn in the daytime. In the beginning, check-ups are scheduled every week, and later once in a month. The mouth guard wearing lasts at least three to four months, and sometimes even longer.
How are the teeth damaged by bruxism treated?
Besides wearing splints, treatment of the teeth already damaged by bruxism is necessary. Some types of damaged teeth therapy include selective grinding and remedy of existing fractures. Placement of fillings and prosthetic restorations (crowns, bridges, veneers, inlay, onlay) are also some of the treatment methods.
With extensive check-up, RTG recording, and estimation of anamnesis Dr. Minić specialists will determine the most convenient therapy for bruxism. For any advice and demands needed regarding dental health maintenance, we are at your service.
