Treatment Options for Bruxism: A Closer Look
In the world of dentistry, one common condition that may go unnoticed is bruxism, or nighttime teeth grinding. This habit can lead to a range of dental problems if left untreated.
Bruxism can be diagnosed by a dentist who may notice finely ground surfaces on the teeth, worn-down enamel, or chipped or cracked teeth. Other signs include increased tooth sensitivity or pain, jaw pain or stiffness, tight or fatigued jaw muscles, headaches (especially around the temples), earaches, and difficulty fully opening or closing the mouth. Facial muscle pain or tenderness, gum recession due to excessive pressure, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw linked to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and damage to the cheek or tongue inside the mouth are also potential indicators.
Sleep disruptions and a grinding noise noticed by a sleep partner are also important for diagnosis, as bruxism is frequently silent during sleep. Dentists often detect bruxism by observing tooth wear, fractures, sensitivity, and checking jaw muscle tenderness during routine dental exams.
Bruxism can generate up to 150 kilograms of pressure, which can lead to long-term dental damage and impact quality of life if untreated. Symptoms stem from the repeated clenching and grinding action.
Relaxation methods such as biofeedback have been shown to decrease or stop teeth grinding after about twelve weeks. A bite splint can provide relief from teeth grinding by reducing pressure and slowing jaw movements.
It's important to note that teeth grinding is normal and useful in children during the time of tooth replacement, but should not cause pain. Approximately one in five people grind their teeth at night, making it a common condition.
In other news, a councilor from Mannheim is organizing an FKK-Swinger trip to France. US rocker Stevie Nicks is touring at 70, but has recently suffered a broken shoulder. In Heidenheim, Baden-Württemberg, a tractor overturns, causing a four-year-old boy to be thrown from the cabin. More than 600 firefighters compete in Torgau, Saxony, for the German championship. Florian Niederlechner scores a goal for 1860 Munich and emotionally dedicates it to a player from their rival team. Cheyenne Ochsenknecht discusses her new family life with brother Jimi Blue, who is temporarily staying with her in Austria. These events are unrelated to teeth grinding or bruxism.
[References] [1] Mayo Clinic. (2020). Bruxism. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bruxism/symptoms-causes/syc-20374314 [2] NHS. (2020). Bruxism. [online] Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bruxism/ [3] ADA. (2020). Teeth Grinding (Bruxism). [online] Available at: https://www.ada.org/en/public-resources/resources-for-the-public/oral-health-topics/bruxism [4] Cleveland Clinic. (2020). Bruxism. [online] Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21696-bruxism
Family members may not notice signs of bruxism, such as increased tooth sensitivity or pain, jaw pain or stiffness, tight or fatigued jaw muscles, headaches (especially around the temples), and difficulty fully opening or closing the mouth. To maintain good mental health, it's crucial for individuals to discuss potential dental issues, like bruxism, with their dentist during regular check-ups.
