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What are the Signs of Bruxism?

Bruxism is teeth grinding or clenching that often occurs at night, but may happen during the day time as well.   There are many factors that can cause someone to grind their teeth including stress, anxiety, genetics, and some medications.  Many patients are unaware that they’re grinding and clenching their teeth at night while they’re sleeping.  Often patients are surprised as we educate them at their dental visit in regards to their teeth and shows them the signs of bruxism in their mouth.

Bruxism

Common signs of Bruxism

Many patients will experience some of the common signs of bruxism.  Patients who experience most of the signs of bruxism are very advanced in their condition.  The symptoms a person will experience will depend on the amount of grinding a person does and on the length of time they’ve been bruxing their teeth.  

For example a person may not develop TMJ pain, jaw muscle pain, or migraines until the advanced stages of bruxism.  However, worn and chipped teeth is usually an early sign of bruxism.

1. Chipped and worn down teeth

2. Tooth sensitivity on chewing food

3. Teeth sensitive to cold temperatures

4. Bite marks on Cheeks and tongue

5. Jaw and muscle pain

6. Tension headaches and migraines

7. Overdeveloped jaw muscles

bruxism, clenching, TMJ

Custom Night guard in Midtown, NYC

Once you’re diagnosed with bruxism, a night guard is commonly the best way to protect your oral health for this condition.   A night guard works by keeping your joints relaxed and keeps your teeth from grinding on each other.  By absorbing the excessive pressure your teeth will not be harmed during the nightly grinding.

To fabricate a night guard, the dentist will take a mold. After which the dental lab will make a custom night guard.

Full arch Dental Night Guard

What Causes Teeth grinding?

Teeth grinding and clenching is a common condition affecting most of the population.  When left untreated it can cause cracked teeth, migraines, jaw pain, and muscle tension in the head and neck.

While we do not know or understand all of the causes for bruxism; Common risk factors include:

1. Stress – Unsurprisingly, residents of NYC suffer from some of the highest rates of bruxism

2. Anxiety

3. Some medications

4. Hormonal changes

5. Genetics

Night Guard Maintenance

Night guards are made from a very durable material.  They can last several years with proper maintenance.  We recommend for patients to bring their night guards every six months when coming in for routine visits.  We will clean your night guards and check to make sure it’s in good condition

Additional treatments for Bruxism

Medications can be effective when used in conjunction with a night guard. Examples of medications that can be used for bruxism include:

  •  Botox – Injection of Botox in the chewing muscles of the face will help to relax them.  The grinding forces will be reduced for up to 6 months, after which the injections will need to be repeated
  • Muscle relaxants – If the symptoms are severe, your doctor can recommend muscle relaxants for a short period of time
  • Anti-anxiety medications – Your physician may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to help you deal with stress or other emotional issues that’s causing bruxism.