Bruxism is a condition in which the patient unconsciously grits his teeth
What is bruxism?
Bruxism is a common condition in many people. This is when the patient unconsciously grits his teeth. Bruxism is of two types: night and the so-called "awaken".
It is a strong compression of the dentition, usually at night, which produces a characteristic squeaking sound. Sometimes this continues during the day.
What are the causes of bruxism?
The etiology of this disease is not very well understood, but it is assumed that the cause is stress, nervous tension, sleep disorders, fatigue, high and uncomfortable obstructions, lack of certain vitamins and minerals, use of stimulant drinks and some common diseases.
Very often at the first symptoms many people do not pay attention, only when it deepens, they seek help from a dentist.
What are the bruxism symptoms?
Bruxism has its own clinical picture. It is characterized by the appearance of severe abrasion of the teeth, which reduces the height of the occlusion and this leads to impaired occlusal proportions. This in turn leads to pain in the lower jaw, masticatory muscles and poor nutrition, and sometimes changes in sleep.
Very often there is a strong sensitivity of the teeth. It is believed that bruxism can sometimes be the reason for unlocking the so-called 'occlusal trauma'.
Bruxism in children
Bruxism is very common in children. It is usually seen around the age of 3 and disappears completely by the age of about 6.
Therefore, it is believed that in children it is rather physiological.
BruxismTreatment
The treatment that is recommended is complex:
- Stopping harmful habits related to chewing objects that are not of food origin - pencils, pens, etc .;
- If possible, reduce the level of stress associated with work or home;
- Intake of calcium, minerals and vitamins, often a deficiency leads to increased levels of irritability and stress;
- Eliminate the use of tonic drinks. Larger amounts of alcohol, coffee in the later hours of the day. This leads to agitation and interferes with sleep;
- Remove uncomfortable, high or irritating obturations and replace them with others.
Anti-bruxism splints are most often made to overcome this problem.
An impression is taken from both jaws and a bite in a dental office.
It usually takes a few days to make. A splint is made for one jaw of the patient's choice - lower or upper. It is made of transparent foil with a thickness of about 2 mm. It is placed on the teeth at night during sleep. This prevents contact between the two dentitions. The splints are changed periodically when abrasions appear on the occlusal surfaces and the splint is punctured. In order to timely diagnose and treat it is necessary to visit a dentist periodically and take the necessary measures. This prevents the possibility of complications.
