Do you know what bruxism is? Do you know their effects and how to solve them? Well, stay tuned, we are going to answer your questions below.
What is bruxism?
Bruxism consists of grinding or clenching the teeth of both jaws (upper and lower) involuntarily, mainly during sleeping hours. It affects one third of the world’s population, according to the Study on Bruxism and a New Stress Test prepared by the University of Murcia.
The direct effects on oral health are, firstly, problems in the articulation of the mouth, and secondly, premature dental wear.
It is classified into three grades:
- This is an occasional habit that may not be repeated on a regular basis, but rather on an occasional basis.
- Associated with anxiety problems. It disappears when the sufferer is fully aware of the problem. It is an established habit, but, to this degree, bruxism is reversible.
- The habit is powerful and the lesions caused to the dentofacial structure are permanent. The person suffers it consciously and unconsciously.
Problems in the articulation of the mouth (TMJ)
Temporomandibular joint syndrome is the most commonly described consequence of bruxism. This disorder directly affects the muscles and joints of the mouth, causing pain from the jaw area to the skull, face, mouth, teeth, ligaments, neck and cartilaginous disc.
Several scientific studies attribute stress as a trigger for bruxism and, therefore, mouth articulation problems.
The temporomandibular joint is also frequently associated with bite problems. However, there is no consensus in the scientific community on whether bruxism causes pain in the TMJ area or, on the contrary, previous pain in this region induces this problem.
How can bruxism be solved?
Depending on the severity observed in the patient, it can be partially or totally remitted through stress and anxiety remission techniques, the two most related triggers. In these cases, in addition, the dentist can take a mold of the tooth structure to make an unloading splint to alleviate the continuous wear. Surgery is not a solution in any of the cases.
Putting an end to this problem or mitigating the consequences of pain requires a professional evaluation. Dentists and maxillofacial specialists are the professionals indicated to give appropriate advice about oral health. Abnormal wear of the teeth, coupled with pain or discomfort in the TMJ region is a clear indication of an incipient problem. Consequently, a professional review is recommended.
Do you need bruxism treatment?
In Cervantes Dental Clinic in Granada we care about your dental health, so we advise you properly to treat your specific case.
As we always say, each one of us is different, and so is our case. For this reason, personalized and attentive service is our daily routine.
If you need a bruxism treatment in Granada, just call or write us, we will be happy to assist you.
Smile is a universal language. Come to our dental clinic in Granada and we will advise you. First appointment free of charge!
