Bruxism refers to grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw, which can occur during the day or at night.
Typically, the incisors and canines (front 6 upper and lower teeth) of opposing arches grind against each other. This side to side action puts undue strain on the muscles and joints of the jaw. Earache, depression, headaches, eating disorders, and anxiety are among the most common symptoms of bruxism; these symptoms also accompany health issues such as chronic stress, Alzheimer’s disease, and alcohol abuse.
Bruxism is frequently misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all, because it is only one of several potential causes of tooth wear. Only a trained professional can tell the difference between bruxing wear and wear caused by overly aggressive brushing, acidic soft drinks, and abrasive foods.
There is no single cure for bruxism, though a variety of helpful devices and tools are available. Here are some common ways in which bruxism is treated:
