Question 1

What is bruxism?

Accepted Answer

Bruxism is a condition where you grind, gnash, or clench your teeth. It can occur while you are awake (awake bruxism) or during sleep (sleep bruxism), and is often unconscious.

Question 2

What causes teeth grinding?

Accepted Answer

The exact cause is not always clear, but it's strongly linked to factors like stress, anxiety, sleep disorders (like sleep apnea), a misaligned bite, or as a side effect of certain medications.

Question 3

How do I know if I grind my teeth at night?

Accepted Answer

Many people are unaware they do it. Common signs include waking up with a sore jaw or headache, your partner hearing grinding sounds, or your dentist, like Dr. Rockson Samuel, noticing excessive wear on your teeth during a check-up.

Question 4

What kind of damage can bruxism cause?

Accepted Answer

Chronic grinding can lead to flattened, fractured, or loosened teeth, severe wear of the enamel, damage to dental restorations like crowns, and jaw joint problems (TMJ/TMD).

Question 5

How is bruxism treated?

Accepted Answer

The most common treatment is a custom-made nightguard (occlusal splint) from a dentist. This appliance fits over your teeth and protects them from the forces of grinding. Addressing underlying causes like stress is also crucial.

Question 6

Is a store-bought nightguard as good as a custom one?

Accepted Answer

No. A custom nightguard made at a clinic like Indira Dental Clinic is fabricated from a precise model of your teeth. It provides a perfect fit for maximum protection and comfort. Store-bought 'boil-and-bite' guards are often bulky, ill-fitting, and can sometimes worsen jaw problems.

Question 7

Can orthodontics help with bruxism?

Accepted Answer

If your grinding is caused or exacerbated by a misaligned bite, then orthodontic treatment to align your teeth can sometimes help reduce the habit.

Question 8

Can children grind their teeth?

Accepted Answer

Yes, bruxism is common in young children, especially as their baby and permanent teeth are erupting. Most children outgrow it without causing any damage.

Question 9

What can I do to manage stress-related grinding?

Accepted Answer

Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation, exercise, and ensuring good sleep hygiene can be very helpful. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed can also reduce the intensity of sleep bruxism.

Question 10

Can bruxism cause headaches?

Accepted Answer

Yes, waking up with a dull, constant headache, especially in the temples, is a very common symptom of sleep bruxism due to the constant muscle tension.

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