Dentists and mental health experts are observing an increase in bruxism, a condition involving teeth grinding and clenching often linked to stress.
Key facts
- •Bruxism is an umbrella term covering clenching, grinding, bracing, and thrusting of the jaw.
- •Studies suggest nearly one in four people may experience the condition.
- •The British Dental Association reports anecdotal evidence that the condition is becoming more common.
- •Severe cases can lead to worn, cracked, or fractured teeth, requiring complex and costly dental work.
- •Experts advise looking for root causes, such as sleep disorders or anxiety, rather than only treating symptoms with mouthguards.
Dentists are reporting an increase in young patients suffering from bruxism, a condition characterized by involuntary teeth grinding, clenching, bracing, or thrusting. While no specific national figures exist, experts suggest the rise may be tied to high levels of stress and anxiety. The condition can lead to significant dental damage, chronic jaw pain, and sleep disruption.
The Link Between Stress and Bruxism
Psychotherapists and dental experts note that teeth grinding is frequently associated with stressful life events. When individuals experience high stress, the body may enter a 'fight or flight' state, causing muscles to tense and the jaw to clench. This physical response is often a way for the body to release accumulated tension, sometimes occurring during sleep.
Treatment and Clinical Perspectives
Treatments for bruxism vary depending on the severity and underlying cause. While some patients use mouthguards to protect their teeth, others seek medical interventions like muscle-relaxing injections. Specialists emphasize that bruxism is a complex 'biopsychosocial' issue that requires a multidisciplinary approach, including assessments for sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnoea, diet, and lifestyle factors.
Potential Physiological Functions
Researchers note that while bruxism can cause damage, jaw movement also serves biological functions, such as stimulating salivary glands to aid digestion and potentially increasing blood flow to the brain. In some instances, such as with obstructive sleep apnoea, grinding may even act as a mechanism to clear blocked airways.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by BBC Health.
