Jaw aches, headaches and neck pain are the kinds of things that many of us experience.
While there can be many causes, a common reason comes down to teeth grinding, something that many of us do without realising.
This can be a side affect or stress and can even lead to tooth chipping.
(Credit: Getty)And, as many dentists will tell you, a growing number of us are doing it more than ever.
“Bruxism is the medical term that refers to the involuntary act of grinding or clenching the teeth,” explains Dr Gamer Verdian, a dentist and founder of Dental Lounge in Sydney.
You might sometimes catch yourself clenching or grinding your teeth when you’re stressed or concentrating.
However, it mostly occurs during sleep, so it’s possible you may not know you’re doing it.
“Many people with nocturnal bruxism remain unaware of their condition until symptoms appear or until a dental professional notices telltale signs of tooth wear,” Dr Verdian says.
What causes it?
Bruxism is surprisingly common in kids, although most children eventually outgrow it.
However, it can rear its head during any stage of life, especially when we’re stressed.
“We have a seen a huge uptick since COVID as the daily stresses of Australians [are] magnified,” Dr Verdian says.
“Potential factors include increased daily stresses, lifestyle changes and perhaps even an increase in sleep disorders.”
Night-time bruxism is common in people with sleep disorders like snoring and sleep apnoea. Smoking, alcohol and some medications can also increase your risk.
A dental check-up can help identify any symptoms of bruxism.
(Credit: Getty)The symptoms
Over time, grinding and clenching can wear down the hard layer of enamel on our teeth.
This can make them flatter and shorter, and cause other problems like cracks and tooth sensitivity.
“The most common presentation we see in our practices is unexpected chipping or breaking,” Dr Verdian says.
Additional signs include headaches, face and neck pain, soreness in the jaw or a popping feeling when chewing, yawning or speaking.
Excessive grinding can also build up the masseter muscle of the jaw, causing the bottom half of the face to appear wider.
If night-time clenching and grinding is loud enough, it can cause partner disturbance.
“Long-term bruxism can lead to a range of complications,” Dr Verdian says.
“This includes temporomandibular joint disorders, myofascial pain, dental complications like tooth loss, and even changes in facial appearance.”
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(Credit: Getty)Can I stop it?
Clenching and grinding can be difficult habits to shake, especially since many of us aren’t even aware when it’s happening.
Dr Verdian says the most common treatment for bruxism is to wear a nightguard or occlusal splint.
They start at around $500, but they may cost more depending on what your dentist recommends.
“These are our most common frontline defense against bruxism. There are many different types and designs,” he explains.
“They offer a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, reducing wear.”
Some dentists now provide Botox injections, which work by relaxing the masseter muscle.
This typically costs between $400 and $1000, but Dr Verdian advises that the effects aren’t permanent.
“They offer temporary relief and can come with side effects,” he explains.
“Long-term medication use isn’t typically recommended as a primary solution for bruxism.”
Depending on the cause, it can sometimes help to get to the heart of the problem.
For instance, if stress is your main trigger, strategies like meditation, deep breathing or counselling could be beneficial.
“While bruxism can’t always be ‘cured’ in the traditional sense, it can be effectively managed,” says Dr Verdian.
“Interventional strategies depend largely on the underlying causes and the patient’s specific symptoms.”
