Understanding the Relationship Between Bruxism and Stress
Dr. Nimesh Patel
September 21st, 2024
9 minute read
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According to the Bruxism Association, around 8 to 10% of the population in the world suffers from severe cases of bruxism. It’s a condition of jaw clenching and teeth grinding that affects almost everyone across all age brackets. While it often occurs subconsciously, especially during deep sleep, Bruxism can lead to significant dental and health issues like tooth damage, jaw pain, headache, and so much more. Studies have shown that bruxism has a strong correlation with stress and sleep apnea. In this blog, we are going to shed light on understanding the psychological aspects of bruxism and effective treatment options. We will also share how you can take care of dental health and find relief.
How Does Stress Contribute To Teeth Grinding?
Emotional stress can trigger muscle tension and hyperactivity in an individual. This often leads to
involuntary clenching and teeth grinding during sleep. Even chronic anxiety can bring in bruxism which is a body’s way of coping with psychological stress. As more cortisol, a stress hormone, is released, heart
rate increases and muscle tension will worsen the teeth grinding. This loop continues for a prolonged period and then brings in real damage to our bodies.
7 Common Symptoms of Bruxism You Should Know
Bruxism is a medical term for teeth grinding and jaw clenching. Some of the most common causes of
grinding teeth in your sleep that an individual can notice as soon as they wake up are:
If you end up waking every day with a throbbing headache, especially in the morning, then it can be a
cause of bruxism. The tension of grinding and clenching can often lead to pain in the temple area
As you clench your teeth during sleep, constant pressure is exerted on the facial muscles. This often
causes significant pain and often makes it uncomfortable to move the jaw or even speak.
Although earaches are not directly bruxism, the proximity of the jaw muscles to the ears can cause the pain. Often it is mistaken as an ear infection. It’s highly recommended to consult your orthodontist for
medical advice.
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) In this disorder pain and stiffness is evident in the jaw area. Grinding and excessive teeth clenching can also cause difficulty in opening and closing the mouth.
People with bruxism experience poor sleep quality. The grinding noises and the discomfort can lead to
frequent awakenings and reduced overall sleep.
Cracked Teeth or Fillings Excessive pressure can lead to cracks or gaps in teeth and even damaged fillings. This not only causes
pain but also necessitates costly dental repairs.
Over time, the enamel can wear down, leading to increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and in
severe cases, tooth loss.
Being aware of these symptoms is the key. If you suspect any of the changes, then consult your dentist
today to take the right precautionary steps.
Different Ways to Cope Up Stress
Managing bruxism and stress is crucial for overall well-being, especially for busy professionals.
Here are some effective ways to cope with stress:
Regular physical activity is a great stress reliever. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of theweek. Whether it's a quick jog, a gym session, or even a walk during your lunch break, exercise helps reduce tension and promote better sleep.
Mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga can significantly reduce stress levels. These activities
encourage relaxation and help you become more aware of your body's tension, including clenching and grinding habits.
Quality sleep is essential for stress management. Aim for 7 - 9 hours of sleep per night and establish a
calming bedtime routine. Poor sleep can exacerbate bruxism, so consider relaxing activities like reading
or a warm bath before bed.
Excessive screen time, especially before bed, can increase stress and disrupt sleep. Try to limit
your screen use in the evening and consider activities that don't involve electronics, such as reading or taking a walk.
Self-Care and Social Support
Taking time for self-care can make a significant difference. Engage in activities that you enjoy and that
help you unwind. Additionally, don't underestimate the power of social support. Spending time with
friends or talking to loved ones can provide emotional relief and reduce stress.
If bruxism persists despite these efforts, it might be time to consult a professional. A dentist can provide
custom mouthguards to protect your teeth, and a mental health professional can offer coping strategies
for bruxism and anxiety. Gaining an understanding of the stress and teeth grinding is the first step to addressing bruxism. The above blog sums up how you can actively lower your stress levels and benefit from
improving your health overall. It’s not an easy process but certainly not impossible. Consult your
orthodontist today!
Author Bio: Dr. Patel is an orthodontist at Vail Orthodontics and maintains a private practice in Rome, NY. He completed his undergraduate education at the Ohio State University. Then, he earned his Doctorate
in Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia. After
earning his doctorate, Dr. Patel attended a three-year, dual degree residency at Columbia University in
New York City. Here, he earned his certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics as well as
earning a Masters in Oral Biology. During his time off, Dr. Patel likes to stay active by jogging, biking, and hiking. INTERESTED IN BECOMING AN AFFILIATE OF TeethNightGuard.com?
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