Everything You Need To Know About Bruxism

Bruxism is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is the involuntary grinding, clenching, or gnashing of teeth that typically occurs during sleep. It can cause a range of dental and medical problems, including tooth damage, jaw pain, headaches, and sleep disturbances. It is important to be aware of bruxism and seek treatment if you are experiencing any symptoms.

Bruxism affects both adults and children, and it is estimated that up to 31% of adults and 15% of children experience bruxism at some point in their lives. The condition can range from mild to severe, and most people may not even be aware that they have it. If left untreated, bruxism can cause significant damage to teeth, gums, and jaw muscles, leading to chronic pain and other health problems.

It is important to be aware of bruxism and its potential complications, as well as the available treatment options. With proper diagnosis and treatment, people with bruxism can manage their symptoms. This can prevent further damage to their teeth and oral health. You may even find that a solution is only a click away!

Common Causes of Bruxism

Bruxism can have various underlying causes, and often it is a combination of factors that contribute to the condition. The following are some of the most common causes:

1. Stress and anxiety: Stress and anxiety are among the most common causes of bruxism. Many people clench or grind their teeth as a coping mechanism for stress, tension, or anxiety. When we feel stressed or anxious, our bodies produce more adrenaline, which can trigger muscle tension and cause the jaw muscles to contract. Over time, this can lead to chronic teeth grinding and clenching.
2. Abnormal bite or misaligned teeth: If you have an abnormal bite or misaligned teeth, you may be more prone to bruxism. Misaligned teeth can cause an uneven distribution of pressure on the teeth, leading to grinding and clenching. In some cases, dental problems such as missing teeth or poorly fitted dental restorations can also contribute.
3. Sleep disorders: Bruxism is commonly associated with sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, which causes interruptions in breathing during sleep. People with sleep apnea may grind their teeth as a response to the airway blockage, which can lead to snoring and other sleep disturbances.

Symptoms of Bruxism

Bruxism can cause a range of symptoms, some of which may be more noticeable than others. Whether you're dealing with nighttime or daytime bruxism some of the most common symptoms include:

• Teeth grinding and clenching - Teeth grinding and clenching are the most common symptoms of bruxism. The sound of grinding or clenching may be loud enough to wake a sleeping partner. In some cases, people with this problem may also grind their teeth during the day without realizing it.
• Tooth sensitivity and pain - Over time, bruxism can cause tooth sensitivity and pain. This is because the constant grinding and clenching can wear down the enamel on the teeth, exposing the sensitive inner layers - People with this problem may experience pain or discomfort when biting or chewing, as well as increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
• Headaches and earaches - The muscle tension and strain caused by bruxism can lead to headaches, particularly in the temples or forehead. Some people with it may also experience earaches or pain in the jaw joint.
• Jaw pain and stiffness -  Bruxism can cause pain and stiffness in the jaw muscles and joints. This can make it difficult to open and close the mouth, and may even cause clicking or popping sounds when chewing or speaking.
• Sleep disturbances - Bruxism can also cause sleep disturbances, particularly for people with severe cases. The sound of teeth grinding and clenching can be loud enough to disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and daytime sleepiness.

Mouthguards as a Treatment to Bruxism

There is no single treatment for bruxism that works for everyone. The appropriate treatment depends on the severity of the bruxism, the underlying causes, and any associated dental or medical conditions. However, one of the most commonly effective treatments is mouthguards like you can get at ClearClub!

Mouthguards and splints are dental devices that can be worn at night to prevent damage caused by teeth grinding and clenching. These devices work by providing a protective barrier between the teeth, cushioning the force of the grinding and clenching.

A mouthguard may be the right treatment for you. Check out the custom mouthguards ClearClub offers! Normal night guards can have lower levels of success and a custom guard prescribed by a doctor can be incredibly expensive. ClearClub offers affordable night guards custom-made for less than a fraction of the price you would pay your doctor.

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