Anyone who has ever suffered from teeth grinding will know how distressing and potentially damaging the condition can be. Officially referred to as bruxism, it involves the grinding of teeth and clenching of the jaw.
While some people are lucky enough to get away without suffering any symptoms or problems as a result of their bruxism, many people experience pain and discomfort in their jaws and the habit can also wear down teeth and cause headaches and earaches.
On the increase
According to one expert, this condition could be on the rise in the UK. London-based dental specialist Shivani Patel claims she has seen an increase in the number of clients coming to her with the problem.
Speaking to the Daily Express, she stated that there has been a 30 per cent rise in teeth grinding issues among her clients over the last five years. Ms Patel also suggested that work-related stress is the most common cause, especially among woman.
On this topic, she remarked: “When we sleep any worries or concerns we have – even if only in our subconscious mind – can lead to clenching, nocturnal grinding and in some cases temporomandibular joint dysfunction (pain and dysfunction of the jaw muscles).”
Taking its toll
Commenting on the impact bruxism can have on people, the dentist added: “It can… cause headaches and mean that sleep is not as restful as it should be. This can take a toll on the patient’s health and wellbeing.”
Ms Patel also stated that in some cases, people do not seek treatment for their bruxism because they are wary of getting into the dentist’s chair. About this, she said: “Often a fear of the dentist inhibits people from seeing a specialist about teeth grinding. We often don’t discover it until the patient has an appointment for something else.”
Changing shape
As well as its many other symptoms, bruxism can cause sufferers’ faces to change shape. Ms Patel pointed out that the grinding can lead to excessive use of the masseter muscles, which are located at the back of the lower jaw. She added: “Continued clenching can cause these muscles to bulk up which can give the face a wider appearance.”
What can be done?
According to the specialist, if the problem is related to stress, relaxation techniques such as hypnosis or yoga can help some patients. In addition, mouth guards or bite guards can be worn at night. However, these items must be custom made and fitted by a dentist. Commenting on the effect of guards, she remarked: “They will not necessarily eradicate the grinding problem completely. However they can preserve the longevity of the teeth.”
According to the NHS, around 70 per cent of bruxism cases that occur during sleep are believed to be related to stress and anxiety. The condition is also strongly associated with obstructive sleep apnoea, which is a disorder that causes breathing to be interrupted during sleep. Teeth grinding can also be caused by certain antidepressants and lifestyle can play a part too. For example, regularly drinking alcohol, smoking and taking recreational drugs increases the risk.
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