The Nightly Grind

Are you experiencing unnecessary headaches or soreness in the jaw? You may be clenching and grinding your teeth at night (defined medically as bruxism) without even knowing. Bruxism is one of the most common sleep disorders and is seen by dentists as a habitual behavior. Some people rhythmically gnash their teeth together in a chewing motion whereas others keep them clenched.
Bruxism is commonly believed to be an anxiety disorder where patients express their anxiety while sleeping by gnashing their teeth together. It can also be the result of too much caffeine, alcohol, tobacco or illicit drugs like methamphetamine and ecstasy in the blood stream. Teeth gnashing can also be a symptom of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Symptoms of Bruxism:

• Anxiety, stress, and tension
• Depression
• Earache
• Eating disorders
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Sore or painful jaw

Bruxism can result in abnormal wear on teeth. Bruxism that goes untreated can severely wear down teeth and gums and can lead to severe decay and, eventually, tooth loss. It can also lead to mayofascial muscle pain, temporomandibular joint dysfunction and headaches. In severe cases it can cause arthritis of the temporomandibular joints.

Bruxism can sometimes be difficult for dentists to diagnose because its symptoms can be confused with that of over-vigorous brushing, normal tooth wear or over consumption of acidic soft drinks. After being diagnosed, bruxism can be treated through the use of a specially-fitted mouth guard that protects both layers of teeth from coming into contact. In more severe cases, patients can be fitted with a nociceptive trigeminal inhibitor. These devices fit over the teeth and can measure pressure. When too much pressure is detected on the teeth surface a signal is sent to the brain. Botox is also used to treat bruxism by being injected into the jaw. After being injected, the Botox relaxes jaw muscles, preventing them from clenching tightly throughout the night.