2 Common Causes Of Bruxism

Characterized by a chronic clenching of the jaw and grinding of the teeth, bruxism can lead to many dental complications. From worn down tooth enamel, bite issues, and even sores on the inside of the mouth and on gum tissue, the dangerous of bruxism should be easy to see. While it affects an estimated 10 percent of people and 15 percent of children, bruxism is not understood well by most people. This guide and your dentist will help you understand the most common causes of bruxism.

Stress

Most people who have bruxism do not even realize they are grinding their teeth because the act is a subconscious way to cope with the stress and anxiety. If your dentist mentions you may be grinding your teeth, possibly at night while you are sleeping, it is probably due to stress.

Everyone experiences stress at some point in time. The way you cope with this stress is important, though. Some people may require medications to ease their stress, especially if the emotional discomfort is affecting their ability to function and live a normal life.

There are ways to cope with stress in a healthier manner, too. Exercise, especially before bed, releases endorphins through your body, helping improve your mood and relax physically tense muscles and joints.

Your dentist may also recommend wearing a mouthguard while sleeping. This will protect the teeth from pressure caused while clenching the jaw and grinding your teeth.

Bite Misalignments

Malocclusion is a misalignment of the upper and lower teeth. This misalignment may affect the way your smile looks, but it can make chewing and speaking difficult, too. Many people who have a bite misalignment also experience tension, locking, and pain in their jaw, which is known as TMJ disorder.

Because a misalignment prevents the upper and lower rows of teeth from lining up properly, excess stress is placed on the jaw/teeth. You may feel soreness in the teeth and your jaw joints, which can lead to the clenching of the jaw and grinding of the teeth.

If you have a malocclusion that is affecting your ability to speak, chew, and live without pain and discomfort, orthodontic treatment may be necessary. Orthodontic braces and even a possible surgical treatment can realign the jaw to a more aligned manner.

Understanding the causes will help you learn the best treatment option for your bruxism. This guide and your dentist will help diagnose and correct the main cause your tooth grinding. Contact a dental service for more help.

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