Bruxism is a condition characterised by clenching, grinding, or gnashing of the teeth—either consciously or unconsciously. It often involves jaw clenching, which can naturally occur during stress or sleep. Night-time teeth grinding, also known as sleep bruxism, occurs during sleep and can disrupt bed partners, gradually affecting dental and jaw health.
So, what can be done about grinding teeth in sleep? Understanding its causes and exploring effective solutions is essential for managing this issue. Below, we share valuable insights to help manage sleep bruxism.
What Causes Night-Time Teeth Grinding?
Medically, night-time teeth grinding is defined as "sleep-related bruxism" or "nocturnal bruxism." This phenomenon often occurs when a person transitions between different sleep stages, such as moving from deep sleep to light sleep. The factors contributing to teeth grinding are varied and include:
- • Psychological stress
- • Muscle tension
- • Smoking
- • Excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption
- • Medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used for depression
- • Snoring or sleep apnoea
Recent studies have identified a correlation between teeth grinding and sleep apnoea, suggesting that grinding may be a protective instinct of the body. When breathing stops, the brain sends signals to the upper and lower jaws to open the airway, thereby maintaining breathing.
Do Children Grind Their Teeth Too?
Sleep bruxism is not limited to adults; it can affect children, including preschoolers, particularly as they transition from primary to permanent teeth. The causes of teeth grinding are often related to physiological development, psychological stress, and daily habits. Generally, children do not exhibit obvious symptoms from grinding, and any damage to their teeth is minimal. However, parents should pay attention to their children's mental health and monitor for any potential breathing issues. If parents have concerns, they should promptly consult an ear, nose, and throat specialist.
What Effects Does Teeth Grinding Have?
Long-term sleep bruxism can lead to ongoing fatigue and soreness in the jaw muscles, often bringing about significant wear on the teeth and discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Persistent grinding wears down enamel, exposing the sensitive dentin underneath, which can make teeth more reactive to hot, cold, or acidic foods and even increase the risk of chipping.
Over time, this strain can also cause morning jaw stiffness, headaches, and tension in the neck and shoulders, which may impact overall sleep quality. In more serious cases, repeated grinding can affect swallowing, speech, and even the alignment of the jaw, sometimes leading to subtle changes in facial structure due to overworked muscles.
How To Treat Teeth Grinding During Sleep?
For most individuals, this habit may not require special treatment, particularly in children, as grinding often diminishes naturally with age. However, if grinding symptoms are severe or have caused other health issues, medication or dental interventions may be necessary. Knowing about effective teeth-grinding treatments can help alleviate the discomfort and prevent long-term damage.
The sleep bruxism treatments include:
- • Dental Treatment: Dentists may recommend individuals who are troubled by grinding to wear a bruxism night guard while sleeping. The dental guard is a custom-fitted hard plastic device that prevents teeth from grinding against each other during sleep. The night guard is specifically tailored to the unique shape and alignment of the teeth, providing a barrier that protects the enamel and reduces strain on the jaw muscles.
- • Lifestyle Adjustments: Making certain lifestyle changes can also help reduce night-time grinding. Managing stress through relaxation techniques may improve sleep quality while limiting stimulants like caffeine and alcohol can prevent overactive muscles. Quitting smoking, addressing sleep apnea, avoiding late-night exercise, and maintaining a calm sleeping environment can also be beneficial. For those with TMJ discomfort, avoiding hard or chewy foods may help reduce strain on the jaw.
For cases where teeth grinding persists, do seek consultations with your dentist so that they can recommend further personalised treatments to improve comfort and oral health.
Night-time teeth grinding often doesn’t require treatment, but understanding its causes and effects can help manage it effectively. If needed, seek professional advice.
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