Bruxism is much more than just an annoying noise for your partner. This is a signal of an organism under pressure. According to Dr Gérald Kierzek, it is a “unconscious motor activation of masticatory muscles during nocturnal micro-awakenings“.
If the phenomenon is common, its impact on oral health and sleep quality justifies appropriate treatment.
Why are you grinding your teeth?
Bruxism does not have a single cause, but often results from a combination of factors. Stress, anxiety and overwork are the main triggers in 70% of cases.
To this can be added contributing factors: dental malocclusion, excessive consumption of stimulants (caffeine, alcohol, tobacco), sleep apnea or certain drug treatments such as antidepressants.
The havoc on your teeth and your sleep
The consequences of untreated bruxism are real. Premature wear of enamel, called attrition, exposes dentin and weakens the entire tooth structure. Result : “hypersensitivity, tooth fractures, and restorations like crowns that break frequently” lists our expert. In the long term, this process can lead to severe gum recession.
Beyond the oral sphere, it is the quality of your nights that is altered. By causing frequent micro-awakenings, bruxism fragments your sleep. “Which results the next day in persistent daytime fatigue and a notable drop in concentration” notes Dr. Kierzek.
Learn to spot the warning signs
In this situation, the body ends up sending signals. Some of the most telling physical signs include:
- Morning pain in the masseters (jaw muscles) and a feeling of stiffness;
- Headaches localized to the temples or tension in the neck;
- Hypertrophy of the jaw muscles, which can give a “square face” appearance;
- Visible, smooth wear on the edge of the incisors.
What solutions to stop bruxism?
The support is now effective. The first-line treatment remains the nighttime occlusal splint. “It mechanically protects the teeth and reduces the power of muscle contractions, providing relief in 80% of patients.“, explains Dr. Kierzek.
For lasting healing, a multidisciplinary approach is often necessary:
- Stress management: Cognitive and behavioral therapies (CBT), relaxation or hypnosis are essential;
- Physiotherapy: To relax the masticatory muscles and re-educate the temporomandibular joint (TMJ);
- Specific treatments: Botulinum toxin injections may be offered in the most severe cases;
- Correction of underlying causes: Treatment of associated sleep apnea or orthodontic realignment.
Finally, be aware that while bruxism can resolve spontaneously in children, it frequently becomes chronic in adults in the absence of intervention. “Sustainable control of bruxism is entirely possible in the majority of cases, provided that combined treatment is adopted, involving a dentist, doctor, ENT or mental health professional.concludes Dr Gérald Kierzek. Don’t let stress consume your nights and your teeth: a consultation is the first step towards relief.