Teeth Grinding

We welcome you to our Acıbadem Istanbul polyclinic for teeth grinding treatment.

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is known as clenching, grinding and clenching one’s teeth during sleep. Teeth grinding occurs involuntarily, causing changes in the hard and soft tissues of the mouth. This common ailment can be seen at any age, regardless of age. People are often unaware of this habit.

What are the signs of teeth grinding?

-Abraded, flattened or chipped tooth tips or enamel formation is seen on the chewing surface. Wear caused by the friction of the teeth can cover all teeth or is only prominent in the anterior teeth.

-Teeth and fillings break. After teeth grinding, fractures occur in the corners of the anterior teeth and cracks occur in the chewing surface protrusions of the posterior teeth. Over time, cracks grow and material loss occurs on the surface.

-There is sensitivity and hypersensitivity in the teeth. In general, sensitivity to cold occurs.

-Recession of the gums and abrasions occur in the areas close to the gums.

-Rocking and spacing occur in the teeth. After a long period of clenching, the support of the bone surrounding the teeth to the tooth decreases. On the other hand, bone protrusions may develop in the root part of the teeth.

-Lines appear on the cheeks. Lines or raised fibrous formations appear in the inner part of the cheek at the closure level of the teeth. This can cause cheek biting.

-Headache occurs. In addition to the headaches felt especially in the morning, muscle pain can also be seen due to the squeezing action.

-Pain is felt in the jaw joint. Pain and clenching may occur in the joint due to loading on the jaw joint.

-Chronic facial pain occurs.

-Ear pain is felt in connection with the contraction of the jaw muscles.

-Muscles harden.

-Jaw locking occurs when opening and closing the jaw.

-A squeaking sound is heard during sleep.

What are the causes of teeth grinding?

The causes of teeth grinding are generally classified as systemic factors, local factors and psychological factors. Systemic factors; intestinal parasites, malnutrition, allergies, endocrine diseases, nervous system disorders, genetic factors, Parkinson’s disease complication and side effects of psychiatric drugs, although not common. local factors; foreign bodies entering the mouth, impaired closure and dental treatments. Psychological factors are listed as anxiety, stress, suppressed anger, aggressive and hyperactive personality type.

How is teeth grinding treated?

In this treatment, it is aimed to prevent the damage that may occur in the teeth and jaw joint and to eliminate the pain. The tool, called “night plaque guard” by the dentist, is placed between the lower and upper jaw to prevent contact of the teeth during sleep. Night plaque protector, which is the most important tool used for treatment, may not be sufficient alone. Another, even more important, method in the treatment of teeth grinding is done with the help of a device integrated into the nerves that control the jaw muscles. This device is placed on the patient’s chin and allows to detect how many times the patient clenches his chin during the night. In this way, the diagnosis is made and the severity of the problem is determined.