Definition:
Teeth grinding, which is also known as bruxism is the unconscious clenching, grinding, or gnashing of teeth.
Diagnosis:
The dentist evaluates the condition by examining the patient's mouth and jaw, checking for tenderness in the jaw muscles and broken, missing, or poorly tooth aligned teeth. The patient may also undergo a series of X-rays of the mouth and jaw. The examination may detect other disorders. If an ear infection is suspected, the patient is referred to a specialist for further examination and treatment. If there is a psychological factor or sleep-related disorder is suspected, the patient may be referred to a therapist, counselor, or sleep specialist.
Treatment:
There is usually no treatment in most cases. However, if it is severe, treatment may be required through stress management, dental approaches, behavior therapy, biofeedback sessions with a therapist, and medications.
Symptoms and Signs:
Individuals with the condition unconsciously clench their teeth together during daytime or while sleeping. They may also have worn, flattened, or chipped teeth. They also experience earache due to sever jaw muscle contractions.
Causes:
The causes of the condition are not completely understood. However, doctors think that the abnormal alignment of the upper and lower teeth may contribute to the problem or changes that may have occurred during sleep cycles in some individuals. Adults with the condition may be affected by psychological factors such as anxiety, stress or tension, suppressed anger or frustration, and an aggressive, competitive, or hyperactive personality. Children with the condition may have growing and developing jaws and teeth. Other cases may be caused by another disorder or a side effect of some psychiatric medications.
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