Coping With Sleep Bruxism
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Health Fitness -> subcategory Other.
Coping with Sleep Bruxism
Overview
Sleep bruxism, the third most prevalent sleep disorder, involves grinding or clenching of teeth and affects 8-10% of adults. While many children outgrow the condition, adults may experience severe consequences without intervention, such as tooth damage, headaches, and jaw pain.
Understanding Sleep Bruxism
Adults often develop sleep bruxism due to various factors, with stress being a common contributor. Dr. Noshir Mehta from Tufts University describes it as akin to "a large football player standing on the tooth." During sleep, teeth can withstand pressure up to 250 pounds, much greater than the typical 20-40 pounds used when chewing.
Common Causes
Despite being more frequent in children, adult bruxism arises from different causes. Historically, it was thought to be due to malocclusion?"a misalignment of teeth. However, lack of evidence led to this theory being largely dismissed.
More recent theories link bruxism to stress and neurochemical imbalances involving dopamine. Dr. Gilles Lavigne's research highlights a pattern in the autonomic nervous system associated with bruxism, although it is not indicative of neurological disease. Lifestyle factors like stress, smoking, alcohol, and caffeine remain significant triggers.
Management and Treatment
While relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture support overall health, they do not specifically alleviate bruxism.
Pharmacological Treatments
Doctors may prescribe anti-anxiety medications, but these can be habit-forming. Dr. Michael Gelb warns that unsupervised use can lead to substance abuse due to their effectiveness.
Use of Mouth Guards
Dentists often recommend mouth guards to protect teeth. These small plastic devices cover the teeth, reducing damage but not preventing grinding. Custom-fitted guards from dentists offer better protection and durability, though they are costly. Over-the-counter versions provide a less expensive, yet basic, alternative.
Dr. Charles McNeill advises that mouth guards should be temporary, as they may inadvertently increase bruxism and cause long-term dental issues. Customized guards can help distribute grinding pressure, reducing jaw pain.
In conclusion, managing sleep bruxism requires a multifaceted approach involving lifestyle adjustments and professional guidance to protect dental and overall health.
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