Bruxism is a sleep-related movement disorder, characterized by the clenching and/or grinding of teeth. It may occur unconsciously during the day (awake or diurnal bruxism) or during the night while changing sleep stages (sleep bruxism). Bruxism is not dangerous, but it can be extremely hazardous to the health of your teeth. More severe cases can be quite painful. Here’s a look at the symptoms of bruxism.
Impact of Severity
The symptoms of bruxism might be more accurately referred to as complications in many instances. Frequent grinding and clenching of the teeth can cause potentially significant damage to them, as well as the surrounding structures. The exact symptoms and the intensity of those symptoms presented as a result of bruxism can vary greatly. The National Institute of Health suggests the following factors as impacting the severity, and thus symptoms, of bruxism:
- Level of stress
- Frequency and intensity of grinding
- Presence or absence of malocclusion
- Posture
- Sleeping habits
- Diet
- Tendency towards relation
Impact on the Teeth
Even mild bruxism can harm the teeth. The frequent grinding can flatten the top of the teeth and even cause chips or fractures. They may become loose from the pressure and firm movement grinding causes. Additionally, the enamel that protects your teeth gets worn off from the friction created by grinding and clenching. In turn, the teeth can become more sensitive to temperature, making hot or cold foods difficult to eat. As the layers of the teeth beneath the enamel are exposed, the teeth become more sensitive in general. Eventually, this can make it difficult to eat, particularly foods that are very hard, or consist of otherwise difficult textures or temperatures. Even mild bruxism can cause extensive wearing on the teeth.
Impact on Musculoskeletal Facial Structures
The muscles and tissue surrounding the teeth will also be impacted by bruxism. Your tongue may become indented along the sides from frequent pressure to the soft tissue, giving it a ridged appearance; in addition, the cheeks may be unwittingly chomped on as a result of the grinding, damaging the tissue. Furthermore, the structures that move the teeth can also suffer. Frequent, forceful use of the jaw muscles can leave them sore, tired, and tight in the morning. This may extend to the face, even causing frequent headaches. These headaches may seem to come from the temples, because of the temple's proximity to where the jaw connects to the skull.
Complications
Damage to the teeth can require extensive dental work. The cracks and chips can be painful, exposing the root to the outside. Crowns, caps, and other expensive procedures may be necessary to recover the teeth sufficiently, although continued grinding and clenching may simply cause more damage that will need to be repaired.
Eventually, bruxism can also lead to temporomandibular joint problems (TMJ). TMJ is characterized by jaw and facial pain. Chewing can become difficult. Some people experience a popping or clicking from the joints of the jaw and inflamed muscles, and the jaw can seem to “lock” in position. If you and your mouth are suffering from bruxism, talk to your doctor or dentist about how to manage it.
