Bruxism refers to the involuntary grinding,
clenching, or gnashing of teeth. It is considered a sleep disorder but can also occur during waking
hours. Bruxism can lead to significant dental and health problems if left untreated.
Reasons for the Treatment of Bruxism
-
Gum recession and tooth loss
– Bruxism is one of the leading
causes of gum recession and tooth loss. It damages the soft tissue directly and
leads to loose teeth and deep pockets, where bacteria can colonize and destroy
the supporting bone.
-
Occlusal
trauma – The abnormal wear patterns on the occlusal (chewing) surfaces
can lead to fractures in the teeth, which may require restorative treatment.
-
Arthritis –
In severe and chronic cases, bruxing can eventually lead to painful arthritis in the
temporomandibular (TMJ) joints (the joints that allow the jaw to open smoothly).
-
Myofascial pain
– The grinding associated with bruxism can eventually shorten and blunt the
teeth. This can lead to debilitating headaches and muscle pain in the myofascial
region.
Treatment Options for
Bruxism
-
Mouthguards – An acrylic mouthguard can be designed from tooth
impressions to minimize the abrasive action of tooth surfaces during normal
sleep. Mouthguards should be worn on a long-term basis to help to
stabilize the occlusion as well as prevent damage to teeth and to the
temporomandibular joint.
-
NTI-tss device
– This device is fitted by a health professional and only covers the front
teeth. The goal of the NTI-tss is to prevent the grinding of the rear molars by
limiting the contraction of the temporalis muscle.
-
Botox® –
Botox® can be injected into the muscles to relax and weaken them. Botox® is an
excellent treatment for bruxism because it weakens the muscles enough to prevent
grinding but not enough to interfere with everyday functions like chewing and speaking.
Other methods of treatment include relaxation
exercises, stress management education, and biofeedback mechanisms. When the bruxing is under
control, there are a variety of dental procedures such as crowns, gum grafts, and crown lengthening that
can restore a pleasant aesthetic appearance to the smile.
If you have questions or concerns about bruxism, please
contact our office.
CALL US: (703) 730-2931 REQUEST APPOINTMENT