WHAT IS BRUXISM?

Bruxism is grinding, gnashing or clenching of the teeth. It is usually involuntary and can occur nocturnally or when the sufferer is awake. People who grind their teeth, particularly at night, may not be aware they are doing it. A partner may hear the  grinding noise, leading the sufferer to seek a diagnosis, or signs of wear and tear that may be spotted by a dentist during a checkup.

Diagnosing bruxism can be likened to a catch 22 situation. Early diagnosis of bruxism and appropriate treatment can prevent long term damage to the teeth. Unfortunately the symptoms needed to arrive at such a diagnosis will often mean the damage is already well underway.

Unaddressed, bruxism can lead to permanent damage to tooth enamel and even teeth cracking and being lost altogether. Pain caused by bruxism can become chronic, and detrimental to quality of life and wellbeing. The possible effect on sleep quality is also a concern – problems associated with sleep deprivation are well documented and can negatively impact on family and work life. If you suspect that you or a family member is suffering from bruxism, then read on for more information on symptoms and guidance on how to proceed.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF BRUXISM?

The signs and symptoms of bruxism can include the following:

  • Wear and damage to teeth and fillings
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Headache/earache
  • Jaw pain and stiffness – this will be most noticeable in the morning for sleep ‘bruxers’
  • Clicking of the temporomandibular joint
  • Indentations in the teeth and tongue
  • Poor quality sleep for the sufferer and/or partner
  • Growth of bony protuberances known as torus mandibularus
  • In childhood bruxism, sleep disruption can manifest as behavioural problems

HOW COMMON IS BRUXISM?

It’s believed that a large proportion of the population will ‘brux’ at some time during their life. A figure of approximately five percent will do it often and consistently enough to be clinically diagnosed with bruxism.

The nocturnal variety of the condition is more prevalent in males, whereas females are more likely to be afflicted with awake bruxism.

Bruxism is also common in childhood. Wear and tear on the teeth is more noticeable in milk teeth because the enamel is thinner, however most children will just grow out of it without any long term impacts. If the problem is more serious then it is wise to seek help, especially if there are any other symptoms relating to other sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF BRUXISM?

It was once thought that bruxism was caused by teeth misalignment, but this has now been ruled out.

The causes of teeth grinding may not always be clear, but it is thought that stress is a contributing factor. The link with stress may be more obvious in the case of awake bruxism. In nocturnal bruxism, links have been identified with anxiety, smoking, alcohol use,  and other sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea. It has also been noted that certain antidepressant medications can cause bruxism.

Some research suggests that certain people may be genetically predisposed to develop bruxism, with a significant number of sufferers having a family member who had suffered from the condition as a juvenile.

How can Brain Training Australia™ help me?

At Brain Training Australia™ we use Neurofeedback Brain Training to help our clients suffering from teeth grinding otherwise known as Bruxism.

Work with the Professionals

The team at Brain Training Australia include accredited, certified and professionals experienced in dealing with stress and anxiety problems, as well as sleep disorders. We work with natural therapies and our highly qualified team is here to support you in a safe and supportive environment. We will work closely with you to tailor a Brain Training Program that is specific to your needs.

Let us help you. Here is how to get started.

Your first step is to get in contact with us.

All new clients receive a free, complementary and no obligation 15-minute face-to-face Complementary Assessment with a dedicated member of our team. If you’re on the fence, wondering if Neurofeedback Brain Training is right for you, then this is a really good place to start.

If you are ready to get started then you can just book in your First Appointment and get started straight away.

The team at Brain Training Australia recognise the unique qualities of all our clients and will work closely with you to personalise your Brain Training Program so that you can achieve your goals of optimal mental processes.

We look forward to helping you live a much richer, happier and healthier life.