Bruxism (teeth clenching) is the condition of clenching or grinding the teeth due to the activation of the chewing muscles during sleep. Bruxism (teeth grinding) can occur not only at night but also during the day and is common in society.
Why we grind our teeth while sleeping is an issue that is still being researched today and has not yet been fully clarified. While this problem may be related to the central nervous system, the most emphasized causes are psychological factors such as stress and anxiety disorder. Additionally, nocturnal bruxism is considered a sleep-related movement disorder and may be accompanied by other sleep problems such as snoring or apnea (short-term cessation of breathing during sleep).
Most of the patients who complain of teeth grinding have wear on their teeth. Teeth may be extremely sensitive and existing fillings and crowns may be damaged. However, there may also be less noticeable soft tissue findings. Most of the time, there is pain or tenderness in the chewing muscles during the examination. Individuals who clench their teeth also complain of morning headaches and fatigue.
Mild degrees of bruxism (teeth grinding) may not require treatment. However, when severe, it can cause jaw joint problems, headaches and dental problems. Bruxism (teeth grinding) is one of the most common causes of jaw joint problems. When severe bruxism (teeth clenching) is left untreated, teeth begin to wear down, even to the point where the entire tooth is lost. While wear makes teeth vulnerable to decay, it can also cause tooth fractures. As a result of continuous and repetitive clenching or grinding of teeth, the jaw joint can be damaged by being exposed to excessive loads, and the wear and height loss on the teeth increases this load and aggravates the existing jaw joint problem. Problems that may be seen in the jaw joint due to bruxism (teeth clenching) are muscle and joint pain, jaw joint locking (inability to open the mouth) and joint sounds (jaw clicking, popping).
Bruxism (teeth grinding) may not be noticed until the problems I mentioned above become serious. Therefore, it is important to be informed about the signs and symptoms and to have routine dental appointments. It is important to continue regular examinations.
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