Bruxism
and pain are often quoted together when talking about
some of the common symptoms of the oral condition of
Bruxism. Bruxism is an oral condition that exhibits
symptoms of teeth grinding and (or) teeth clenching. The
intensity and duration of the teeth grinding motions of
Bruxism can vary widely in people and the associated
consequences vary widely as well.
Is pain a
mandatory part of Bruxism teeth
grinding?
Pain is
not always associated with Bruxism and therefore cannot
be said to be a mandatory part of the teeth grinding
aspects of Bruxism.
Indeed,
most forms of Bruxism pass off without trouble, all by
itself. Such types of Bruxism is often seen in cases of
children – Bruxism teeth grinding actions are quite
common in little children and usually goes away as they
grow into their preteens.
Sometimes
however, Bruxism persists beyond the initial years and
at times exhibit symptoms only in the adult years. Such
cases of Bruxism are different and would require a
physician’s or dental examination in order to establish
the real cause of the Bruxism.
Cases of
Bruxism where symptoms are accompanied by other
discomfort such as facial pain and headaches or extreme
tiredness, call for a medical examination and follow up
treatment.
When is
Bruxism associated with pain?
The most
basic reason for Bruxism and pain to coexist is when the
teeth grinding motions of Bruxism are intense enough to
directly affect the masticatory muscles. Such types of
myofascial pain as it is often described in medical
terminology, is triggered by the literal overuse of the
facial muscles that are otherwise required for eating
purposes. Overexertion of these muscles is caused when
Bruxism teeth grinding or teeth clenching action are
carried out both during the nights and during the day
time as well.
Bruxism
pain can be also triggered by some form of abnormality
in the jaw joints that cause improper jaw mobility (or
upper spinal dysfunction). This could be a reason for
the teeth grinding in the first place, or it could also
be a consequence of the actions of Bruxism.
Bruxism pain is
also brought on by severe fatigue and stress that
Bruxism teeth grinding can potentially cause. Teeth
grinding during the nights can also manifest in painful
symptoms caused by the resultant condition of sleep
deprivation (and subsequent physical and mental
strain).
Bruxism
pain is often seen to extend to neck and back regions
when the condition persists over a long duration. This
condition needs to be examined to arrive at a correct
diagnosis.
