Everyday life stress can bring along certain habits that develop without our awareness. One of these is teeth grinding, known as bruxism. This problem, which most often occurs during sleep at night, can lead to serious issues in the jaw, teeth, and head over time.
What Is Teeth Grinding?
Teeth grinding is when a person unconsciously presses their upper and lower teeth together with force or grinds them. Although this usually happens during sleep, it can also occur during stressful moments in the day. If unnoticed in its early stages, it can cause permanent problems such as tooth wear and jaw muscle pain.
What Causes Teeth Grinding?
The reasons for teeth grinding are multifactorial. The most common causes include:
- Stress and Anxiety
Mental tension triggers involuntary contraction of the jaw muscles. Teeth grinding behavior increases especially during high-stress periods. - Sleep Disorders
Conditions like sleepwalking, snoring, or sleep apnea can be associated with bruxism. - Malocclusion (Bite Disorders)
When the teeth don’t align properly, the jaw constantly seeks balance. This forces the chewing muscles to work excessively. - Certain Medications and Substances
Some antidepressants and central nervous system stimulants can increase the risk of teeth grinding. Caffeine and nicotine also exacerbate this effect. - Personality Traits
Bruxism is more common in individuals with competitive, perfectionistic, or aggressive personality types.
What Are the Symptoms of Teeth Grinding?
The following signs may indicate a teeth grinding habit:
- Morning jaw pain or fatigue
- Flattening or wear on the teeth
- Head, temple, or neck aches
- A feeling of pressure around the ears
- Increased tooth sensitivity
How Is Teeth Grinding Treated?
The treatment plan is determined by the underlying cause and the severity of the condition:
- Night Guard Use
Custom-made night guards prevent the teeth from rubbing together, protecting both teeth and jaw muscles. - Stress Management
Techniques such as physiotherapy, breathing exercises, meditation, and psychological support can help reduce stress levels. - Botox Injections
In severe cases of teeth grinding, Botox applied to the jaw muscles prevents excessive contraction. - Dental Intervention
If bite disorders are present, orthodontic corrections may be necessary. Worn teeth can also be restored through restorative procedures.
Protect Your Teeth with Megadentist
Megadentist is here to help you manage teeth grinding with our expert team and modern treatment methods. Take the first step toward a healthy, comfortable life today.
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