Grinding and
clenching

Bruxism is clenching and grinding of the teeth that is not part of normal chewing function. Bruxism can cause damage to the jaw joints and to the teeth as well as significant pain and sensitivity in some patients.

Clenching and grinding of teeth at night is often caused by extreme muscle activity beyond the control of the patient who is often unaware of what goes on while they are sleeping. This is termed Nocturnal Bruxism and can lead to headaches, jaw joint problems and excessive wear of the teeth, which may include fractures and chipping. Widespread generalized wear of the teeth can require significant dental interventions to repair the lost tooth structure.

People who experience jaw joint pain, as a result of bruxism, will often complain for pain on one side of the neck or face. The pain can result in difficulty chewing and even restrict the opening of the mouth. Often the pain will be intense and may refer to other areas of the head and neck, including the teeth, which can make the diagnosis difficult, especially if the pain mimics a toothache. Other potential causes of the pain, such a neural disorders, need to be ruled out, so a thorough diagnosis is critical.

Bruxism is a most severe at night when asleep, when the patient lacks conscious control, but clenching during the day can also bring upon symptoms. With awareness and practice, the patient can learn to control daytime bruxism. Often the symptoms can be resolved with the provision of an occlusal splint. An occlusal splint is a custom-made laminated plastic appliance worn at night. By separating the upper and lower teeth with the occlusal splint, the muscles of the jaw are lengthened, this in turn relaxes them and helps to alleviate and prevent muscle spasm: which will assist in reducing pain The occlusal splint also protects the teeth (and any restorations) from the wearing effects of bruxism and thus will increase the longevity of the wearer’s teeth.