Three Questions About Bruxism
Posted on: 15 December 2021
If you grind your teeth a lot, you have a condition called bruxism. You may notice that you clench your teeth during the day. Or, you might not even know you have bruxism because you grind your teeth at night in your sleep. Waking up with jaw pain or a headache might be an indication that you grind your teeth while you are sleeping. Teeth grinding can be very loud, so it might even wake you or your partner up, which can lead to sleep deprivation.
To help you learn more, here are the answers to three frequently asked questions about bruxism.
1. What Causes Bruxism?
Oftentimes, bruxism is a sign that you are experiencing a lot of stress in your life. Feeling overly stressed can lead to teeth grinding or jaw clenching. You might also grind your teeth if you're feeling nervous, angry, or frustrated. Those with a more aggressive personality or people who are very competitive might also suffer from bruxism.
The following disorders tend to lead to bruxism well:
- Parkinson's disease
- Dementia
- Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD)
- Sleep apnea
- Chronic pain
Teeth grinding can also be a side effect of certain antidepressants. An imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain is one more possible cause of bruxism.
2. Can Bruxism Damage Teeth?
Grinding your teeth can cause damage. Your teeth might become flattened, fractured, or loose. Bruxism can also lead to worn teeth enamel or tooth pain. Your jaw muscles might become tight or tired, which could lead to the jaw not closing all the way. Because bruxism can cause this kind of damage and discomfort, you will want to see your dentist for treatment options.
3. Does Botox Help with Bruxism?
One effective treatment option for bruxism is Botox. When a dentist provides Botox treatment for bruxism, they inject a small dose of Botox into the masseter. This large muscle is located in the jaw and is directly responsible for mastication, or chewing. The Botox treatment weakens the masseter muscle, which helps to stop teeth grinding and jaw clenching.
It can take some people longer than others for the Botox treatment to take effect. Also, those who receive Botox for bruxism will need to repeat it, as it will eventually wear off and stop working. In most cases, dentists use Botox treatment for bruxism as a last resort and may try other treatment methods first. However, for some, Botox may be the only thing that helps alleviate teeth grinding.
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