Bruxism describes the clenching, grinding and gnashing of teeth without functional purpose. It is something that could occur during sleep and wakefulness. Both share similar risks and consequences while they have different etiologic and pathophysiology mechanisms.
Sleep bruxism plays a role in temporomandibular joint disorders, stomatognathic muscle pain, tooth wear and damage and dental restoration breakdown.
In previous years, dentistry considered sleep bruxism as an anatomical etiology as there is no evidence that it has a pathophysiologic reason. Adults and children that report self-awareness of grinding their teeth are often hyperactive, aggressive and anxious individuals. Factors that are also associated with bruxism are psychological, for example, poor coping mechanisms, emotional lability, competitive behavior and nervousness. Attempts to eliminate bruxism is usually done by treating the cause, which could be difficult to diagnose.
Treatment could include crunchy splints that are prescribed by a dentist. These are placed over the lower jaw to cover the teeth and prevents clenching.
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21055 12 Mile Road, Roseville, MI 48066