Bruxism

One of our areas of expertise at the Oatlands Referral Centre is Bruxism, commonly known as tooth grinding or clenching.

Whilst occasional tooth grinding does not always necessarily result in further issues, in the long term it can cause discomfort in the joint, damage to the tooth’s bite surface and therefore sensitivity and chipping and headaches and earaches.

Causes of Bruxism

The most common cause of bruxism is stress or anxiety, which leads patients to grind their teeth when they are asleep. They may be completely unaware of this as it can be a subconscious action. Other patients may clench their teeth when awake. There is also a link between bruxism and obstructive sleep apnoea, when breathing is interrupted when you are asleep.

Bruxism can be worsened if a patient takes certain antipsychotic or antidepressant medications, particularly SSRIs (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors). Alcohol, smoking and recreational drugs can also worsen bruxism.

Types of Bruxism and Treatment.

Bruxism in a patient may be referred to as ‘Primary bruxism’, when it is caused by an underlying condition or ‘Secondary bruxism’ when caused by medication or lifestyle and determining the type of bruxism helps us to determine the best course of action.

At the Oatlands Referral Centre we use various different methods of treatment such as fitting patients with mouth guards or may refer the patient for cognitive behavioural therapy to address the underlying stresses and reactions that are causing tooth grinding. Dr Neil Paryani makes Michigan splits or mouth guards…

We may also advise that the client makes changes to their lifestyle such as cutting down on alcohol or caffeine, or giving up smoking.

Bruxism can affect both adults and children and the sooner it is treated, the less likely it is to cause further dental problems such as damage to the teeth and jaw pain. If you would like assistance diagnosing or treating bruxism in one of your patients, give us a call today.