The Unconscious Sleep Disorder called Bruxism
Sleep bruxism is considered a sleep-related movement disorder more common in children. Bruxism can happen both in the day and night time, but it is at night that the sliding or grinding of tooth surfaces are at its height. Though adults may also clench or grind their teeth during sleep, they are likely to have other sleep disorders, such as snoring and sleep apnea.
Mild forms of bruxism may not need treatment, but severe bruxism can lead to teeth damage, headaches and disorders of the jaw. You may not know it, feel pain at all while you’re unconsciously grinding, but waking up to a sore jaw is not uncommon.
So why does it happen?
Stress seems to cause bruxism but causes vary from person to person. Some experts point to the level of anxiety, ability to relax, sleep posture, sleeping habits, eating disorders, and misaligned teeth. Signs of the condition are found evident on the teeth, like worn, flattened surfaces and sometimes a chipped or broken tooth, exposure of the deeper layers of teeth that may be sensitive or not. You can have an earache and jaw ache or a headache at the temple areas, have soreness or tightness of facial and jaw muscles, marks on the insides of your cheek as well as on your tongue. A locked jaw can be a possibility.
What must you do then?
See your dentist right away. He can help determine the extent and severity or find a psychological component that a sleep specialist can manage. Otherwise, the dental approach may ease the effects of bruxism – like splints and mouth guards and correction of misaligned and damaged teeth. These aim to reduce pain, prevent permanent damage to teeth, and reduce clenching as can be possible.
Dental Help for Bruxism in Lynnwood
Bruxism need not get serious. With early intervention, you can diminish potential damage to teeth and jaws. Visit Song Dental in Lynnwood and know more about how to manage this condition in a variety of ways.
