Do you clench, grind your teeth in sleep? Here are the causes, symptoms and cure for bruxism

Causes of bruxism: High stress levels and anxiety are commonly associated with bruxism, as the body may use teeth grinding as a means to get rid of tension (Image: Canva)

Are you or someone you care about suffering from bruxism, a common condition that causes you to grind, clench, or gnash your teeth unconsciously, usually while you sleep. Bruxism can damage your teeth and cause other health problems if left untreated.

It can lead to dental problems and discomfort, says Mumbai-based super specialist dental surgeon Dr Ashish Shah. He adds, "The problem usually occurs during sleep (sleep bruxism) or when awake (awake bruxism)."

Dr Shah shares the various causes of bruxism, and suggests available treatments for this condition.

Causes of bruxism:

Stress and anxiety: High stress levels and anxiety are commonly associated with bruxism, as the body may use teeth grinding as a means to get rid of tension. Managing stress and anxiety through relaxation techniques can help curb this.

Dental alignment issues: Bruxism can also be triggered by malocclusion or misaligned teeth, as the body instinctively attempts to correct the bite. Orthodontic treatment or dental devices may aid in such cases.

Medications: Certain medications, notably antidepressants, have been known to induce bruxism as a side effect. If you suspect your medication is causing this issue, consult your dentist for potential adjustments or alternatives.

Lifestyle choices: Lifestyle choices can influence bruxism. The consumption of alcohol, caffeine, and recreational drugs may contribute to teeth grinding. Reducing or moderating these substances can help manage bruxism symptoms.

Sleep disorders: Conditions like sleep apnea often coincide with bruxism. Treating the underlying sleep disorder, such as using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine for sleep apnea, can be useful to combat the bruxism symptoms.

Neurological factors: In certain instances, neurological conditions or brain injuries can result in bruxism. Consult a neurologist or healthcare specialist to address underlying neurological issues that may be causing teeth grinding.

Treatment options for bruxism:

1. Mouth-guards or splints: Your dentist can provide custom-fitted mouth-guards or splints to protect teeth from grinding and clenching.

2. Stress management: A cause for several illnesses, stress is rampant in the modern day. Practising techniques such as relaxation exercises, meditation, or counseling can help manage stress and reduce bruxism.

3. Behavioural therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be effective in addressing the underlying psychological causes.

4. Medication: In severe cases, muscle relaxants or medications prescribed by a doctor/dentist can help relax jaw muscles.

5. Dental correction: In some cases, correcting misaligned teeth or adjusting dental work can be helpful in keeping bruxism at bay.

6. Lifestyle changes: This becomes all the more important because poor lifestyle choices can hamper your dental health. Try reducing alcohol, caffeine, and recreational drug intake as these can help.

7. Treat underlying conditions: If sleep disorders or other medical issues contribute to bruxism, addressing these conditions can be key to managing the problem.

It is important to consult with a dentist to diagnose bruxism and determine the most appropriate treatment plan curated for your needs.