Bruxism is a condition in which an individual grinds, gnashes, or clenches their teeth, often unconsciously. It can occur during the day (awake) or at night (sleep), and some experts consider sleep bruxism a sleep-related movement disorder. People who clench or grind their teeth at night are likelier to have other sleep disorders, including snoring and pauses in breathing (sleep apnea).
Clenching your jaw or teeth is a common manifestation of bruxism. Continuous jaw clenching can lead to jaw pain, headaches, wear on the teeth, and even damage to dental work. Over time, the excessive force exerted on the jaw can also lead to disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge that connects the jaw to the side of the head.
People suffering from bruxism and a clenched jaw might not always notice their symptoms, including soreness, tight jaw muscles, increased tooth sensitivity, and flattened or chipped teeth. The exact cause of bruxism isn’t always straightforward but often involves a mix of physical, psychological, and genetic factors. Stress, anxiety, aggressive personality types, certain medications, and medical conditions commonly associated with bruxism.
While there isn’t a true “cure” for bruxism, especially if it’s linked to deep-rooted habits or stress, effective management can significantly reduce its impact. People can also try muscle relaxer treatments in cases where other treatments have been ineffective.
These muscle relaxants are injected into the jaw muscles, significantly reducing muscle contraction force. This decreases wear on the teeth and alleviates clenched jaw pain and discomfort. The procedure targets the masseter and sometimes the temporalis muscle, with effects lasting about 3 to 6 months, necessitating potential repeated treatments for ongoing benefit.
The right treatment plan can significantly reduce bruxism symptoms and help prevent further damage to the teeth and jaw. Contact us for a free consultation and start your journey today.
Also known as anti-wrinkle treatments, muscle relaxers reduce fine lines and wrinkles by targeting the underlying muscles.
Effectively restore volume loss, plump the skin, and smooth deep wrinkles and folds in common areas of concern such as lips, tear troughs, cheeks, jawline, and more.
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