Say Goodbye to Bruxism
Bruxism or teeth grinding, according to British Dental Health Foundation, affects over six million people in the UK. It often occurs during deep sleep or while under psychological pressures of daily life. Persistent teeth grinding is harmful to oral health, as it can lead to abnormal tooth wear, fractured teeth, gum inflammation and even tooth loss.
Fortunately, there are possible treatments available for teeth grinding. Behavioural therapies and the use of mouth guards can be effective in managing its symptoms. Dentists in BotanicsDentalCare.co.uk say mouth guards help reduce the sensation of clenching to prevent premature wear and fracture on teeth.
Behavioural Therapy
Other effective treatments include sleep hygiene and muscle-relaxation exercises. If you have a stress or anxiety related problem, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is advisable. This can help you deal with the daily stresses of life by changing how you think and act. Trying to relax and getting a good night’s sleep can also manage the symptoms if your bruxism is stress-related.
Habit-Reversal Techniques
It is also possible to break bruxism through habit-reversal techniques. Simple lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol consumption, giving up smoking and managing stress can help. It is also important to be aware of your habit to make it easier to break. You can relax your jaw when you feel yourself clenching or you could open your jaw slightly.
Prevent Dental Problem
Visit your dentist for regular dental check-ups to treat problems caused by your teeth grinding, and prevent further damage. If your bruxism, for instance, lead to a cracked tooth and is left untreated, the nerve in the tooth could die. A dental abscess might also develop and you might need to have a root canal procedure.
The severity of symptoms and the frequency of teeth grinding varies. It occurs in both children and adults, although it is common in adults between the ages of 25 and 44. Learn about the different technique that can manage the symptoms of bruxism. You can also talk to your dentist to help you deal with the problem.
