Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
At Horbury Dental Care & Implant Clinic we see a regular flow of patients suffering from teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. The condition involves the involuntary clenching, grinding, or gnashing of teeth and can occur during wakefulness (awake bruxism) or sleep (sleep bruxism). While occasional teeth grinding may not cause harm, we know how regular and persistent bruxism can lead to various dental, health issues and have a detrimental effect on your quality of life.
We’re also lucky enough to have Dentist Tom Rawlins as part of our wonderful team here at Horbury. Tom has a special interest in the management of tooth wear, caused by teeth grinding, so we guarantee all patients are in safe hands when it comes to any issues associated with teeth grinding.
Symptoms of Teeth Grinding
Bruxism often goes unnoticed until complications arise. Common symptoms include:
- Tooth Wear: Flattened, fractured, chipped, or loose teeth due to excessive grinding.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot and cold.
- Jaw Pain or Tightness: Soreness or discomfort in the jaw muscles, especially after waking or prolonged clenching.
- Headaches: Dull headaches, particularly in the temples, often associated with muscle tension.
- Ear Pain: Discomfort that mimics earaches, stemming from jaw muscle strain.
- Sleep Disruptions: Frequent awakenings or disrupted sleep patterns due to grinding noises or discomfort.
Effects of Teeth Grinding
If left unmanaged, bruxism can lead to:
- Dental Damage: Severe tooth wear, fractures, or loss, necessitating restorative procedures like crowns or dental implants.
- Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD): Conditions affecting the jaw joint, leading to pain, clicking sounds, or limited movement.
- Gum Recession: Excessive pressure can contribute to gum recession, increasing the risk of periodontal disease.
- Facial Pain: Chronic muscle tension can cause persistent facial pain or discomfort.
Alleviating Teeth Grinding
Effective strategies to manage and reduce bruxism include:
- Stress Management: Since stress and anxiety are significant contributors to bruxism, incorporating relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can be beneficial.
- Mouthguards or Splints: Custom-fitted dental appliances worn during sleep can protect teeth from grinding damage and alleviate muscle strain.
- Behavioural Therapy: Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help identify and modify behaviours contributing to bruxism. Hypnotherapy can also help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Grinding
Bruxism can result from various factors, including habit, stress and anxiety. Posture (having your head tilted down) is currently the biggest cause with so many working from home on laptops without properly adjusted desks and chairs. This causes fatigue in your neck muscles and patients often tighten their jaw and clench to balance it. Back pain can result from this too.
Indicators include waking up with jaw pain, headaches, earache, tooth sensitivity, or noticing flattened or chipped teeth. A sleep partner may also hear grinding noises during the night.
Yes, bruxism is common in children, especially during sleep. It often occurs during growth phases and may resolve without intervention. However, for persistent grinding we recommend you contact us so we can arrange for your child to be evaluated by one of our Horbury dentists.
Chronic bruxism can lead to dental damage, jaw disorders, headaches, and other health issues if left untreated.
Our dentists will diagnose bruxism through patient history, clinical examination of tooth wear, jaw muscle tenderness, and reports of grinding sounds during sleep.
Yes, reducing stress and thinking about posture can help minimise bruxism.
Treatments may include stress management, hypnotherapy, nightguards, and posture changes.
If you experience persistent jaw pain, tooth damage, headaches, or suspect you grind your teeth, it’s advisable to contact us and arrange a consultation for evaluation and appropriate management.
Book A Teeth Grinding Appointment Today
Teeth grinding can affect everyone so whether you’re in Wakefield, close by in Alverthorpe, Ossett, Outwood, Crofton, Flanshaw, Huddersfield, Dewsbury, Batley, West Yorkshire or beyond our experienced team offers comprehensive evaluations and personalised treatment plans to address teeth grinding and its effects.
At Horbury Dental Care & Implant Clinic we use advanced technology and a patient-cantered approach and aim to alleviate discomfort and prevent further dental complications.
If you suspect you’re experiencing bruxism, contact us today to book a consultation.
