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Bruxism – causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com

Tuesday, January 30, 2018 by

Bruxism is the habit of unconsciously gritting or grinding the teeth. This usually happens during stress or sleep. The cause of bruxism remains unknown. But in some cases, kids may grind their teeth because their top and bottom teeth are not aligned properly. Others grind their teeth as a response to pain or to ease pain, it may be from an earache or teething. Moreover, some kids who are hyperactive or with other medical conditions may develop bruxism. Medication and other lifestyle habits such as alcohol consumption, smoking, using recreational drugs, and excessive caffeine consumption may also cause bruxism.

Known side effects of bruxism

There are several known side effects of bruxism. These include tooth wear, tooth cusp fracture, attached gingival recession, tooth mobility, fractured restorations, masticatory muscle pain, and temporomandibular disorders. Other possible side effects of bruxism include limited jaw opening, temporal headache, ear problems such as plugging, tinnitus, and subjective hearing loss, migraines, neck pain, insomnia, and depression.

Body systems harmed by bruxism

The body systems harmed by bruxism include the digestive and muscular systems.

List of foods or nutrients that prevent bruxism

According to an entry published on the website Top10HomeRemedies.com, there are several foods and plants that can prevent teeth grinding. These include Valerian root, lavender, herbal tea, and a mixture of turmeric and milk.

Treatments, management plans for bruxism

There are several treatment and management plans available for bruxism. One of these is treating the underlying cause. If it is caused by stress, try to relieve stress and get a good quality sleep. Another treatment for bruxism is by protecting the teeth. Wear a mouth guard or mouth splint at night to prevent tooth movement by balancing the pressure in the mouth. Moreover, these tools serve as a physical barrier between the teeth to prevent them from getting more damaged. Another device that is effective for bruxism management is the mandibular advancement device (MAD), which is worn in the mouth at night to hold the lower jaw forward and closed in sleep.

Where to learn more

Summary

Bruxism is the habit of unconsciously gritting or grinding the teeth.

Bruxism can cause tooth wear, tooth cusp fracture, attached gingival recession, tooth mobility, fractured restorations, masticatory muscle pain, and temporomandibular disorders

Bruxism can be prevented by consuming Valerian root, lavender, herbal tea, and turmeric milk.

Bruxism can be treated by treating its underlying cause, wearing a mouth guard or mouth splint, and using a MAD.

Sources include:

Merriam-Webster.com

KidsHealth.org

NHS.uk

EMedicine.Medscape.com

Top10HomeRemedies.com

HSE.ie



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