Have you been experiencing constant headaches, jaw pain, or teeth that seem worn down and sensitive for no understandable reason?

These are common signs of bruxism, more commonly called as teeth grinding. It is an involuntary contraction of the muscles in your jaws which causes a clenching or grinding of the teeth.  Most patients with bruxism experience it while they’re sleeping, which makes it impossible for them to break the habit. However some symptoms may interfere your everyday activities and push you to consult a dentist.

We assess your dental condition and provide a customized nightguard that can be worn comfortably as you rest, establishing a strong barrier that minimizes the harmful effects of bruxism.

SYMPTOMS OF TEETH GRINDING/ BRUXISM:

• Jaw and facial pain
• Headache 
• Earache
• Pain and stiffness in Jaw joint and surrounding muscles 
• Disturbed sleep
• Worn out teeth which may cause teeth to be sensitive to hot and cold foodstuffs
• Fractured teeth/fillings

Headaches and facial pain are usually the most common and early signs of teeth grinding/ Bruxism. 

In advanced cases, worn out teeth may be seen in the patient and may require reconstructive treatment. 

WHEN TO SEE A DENTIST?

Its time to consult a dentist if:

• Your teeth seem worn out or flattened, damaged or sensitive
• Pain in jaw and joint region, constant headaches
• Your partner says you make grinding sounds with your teeth in your sleep

We at Dr Bari Dental, analyse the extent of the problem and treat it accordingly. 

TREATING TEETH GRINDING/ BRUXISM

Mouth guards/ splints: Using mouth guards or mouth splints reduces the sensation of clenching and grinding  teeth. Splits reduce the excessive load on teeth, thus reducing pain and preventing tooth wear, as well as further wearing of teeth

Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy for muscle relaxation is advised.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: CBT may be required in patients where stress is a major factor for Bruxism.

Restorative/ Reconstruction therapy: It may be advised to patients who have worn out/ fractured teeth as well as sensitive teeth, as a result of Bruxism.

BUT WHAT CAUSES TEETH GRINDING / BRUXISM IN THE FIRST PLACE?

It is important to know the causes of Bruxism in order to prevent and treat it. It ia usually linked with the following factors:

STRESS AND ANXIETY:

Patients may not be aware of stress and anxiety, which during sleep may cause Bruxism.

MEDICINES: 

Bruxism is sometimes linked to anti depressants of the class selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) like sertaline, paroxetine, fluoxetine.

SLEEP DISORDERS: 

Patients who snore or have sleep disorder like Obstructive sleep apnoea are more likely to develop bruxism.

LIFESTYLE: 

Other factors linked to bruxism are alcohol consumption, smoking, recreational drugs, excess consumption of caffeinated drinks like tea, coffee. 

So, if teeth grinding is troubling you, we at Dr Bari Dental Clinic are at your service to diagnose it, determine the extent of damage happened to your oral structures and come up with a reliable plan to rectify it.