Dr. Acosta and a team member in the hallway at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne, which offers TMJ bite guards and sleep apnea care

Bruxism

Bruxism, grinding the teeth and clenching the jaw, happens to most people at some point, by day or by night. It is one of the most common sleep disorders and does most of its damage during sleep.

What causes it

In people with bruxism, the chewing reflex that normally switches off during sleep stays active, even during naps. The front six upper and lower teeth typically grind side to side, straining the medial pterygoid muscles and the temporomandibular joints. Common symptoms include earache, headaches, depression, eating disorders and anxiety, which also accompany chronic stress, Alzheimer’s disease and alcohol abuse.

Dr. Acosta reviewing a patient chart with her team at Broadway Dentistry, a general dentistry office in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Diagnosis

Bruxism is often misdiagnosed or missed, because tooth wear has several causes. Only a trained professional can tell bruxing wear from wear caused by overly aggressive brushing, acidic soft drinks or abrasive foods.

A patient talking with a team member in the chair during a dental exam visit at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne

Why bruxism should be treated

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Gum recession and tooth lossBruxism is a leading cause of both, loosening teeth and creating deep pockets where bacteria destroy the supporting bone.
Occlusal traumaAbnormal wear on the chewing surfaces can fracture teeth, which may need restorative treatment.
ArthritisSevere, chronic bruxing can lead to painful arthritis in the temporomandibular joints (TMJ).
Myofascial painGrinding shortens and blunts the teeth, which can cause debilitating headaches and muscle pain.

Dr. Denise Acosta and a team member laughing with a young patient in a treatment room at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne, where fillings and crowns are done

Treatment options

There is no single cure, but a custom acrylic mouthguard made from impressions, worn long term during sleep, reduces tooth wear and protects the teeth and jaw joint.

Relaxation exercises, stress management and biofeedback can also help. Once the bruxing is under control, crowns, gum grafts and crown lengthening can restore the look of your smile. If you have questions or concerns about bruxism, please contact our office.