Prevention of gnashing and wear of teeth

Grinding of the teeth (also known as bruxism) is a disorder of the temporomandibular joint of the lower jaw, which is characterised by severe biting and grinding of the teeth when not chewing. Many factors can cause this disorder. It may betray the patient’s emotional stress, anxiety, psychological experiences, sleep disturbances, neurological disorders and aggressiveness. Research has shown that the development of bruxism can also be influenced by changes in the occlusal surface of the teeth following the appearance of a new restoration, which can affect the position of other teeth.

The causes of bruxism are classified as local (dental trauma, over-restoration, atypical eruption of deciduous and permanent teeth, misalignment of teeth, lip deformities, gingival hyperplasia), systemic (brain damage, mental retardation, Down’s Syndrome, gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions, cerebral palsy), neurological (anxiety, stress).

A comprehensive approach to the diagnosis of bruxism and tooth wear and the prescription of treatment and preventive measures is essential. In order to prescribe the most effective treatment for teeth grinding, it is essential to first identify the causes of bruxism as precisely as possible. In many cases, the treatment of bruxism is a complex one, combining several methods and involving the care of specialists in several fields.

When you arrive for your consultation, you will first take a medical history, assess the condition of your teeth and the level of tooth decay. The treatment of bruxism often starts with an analysis of the patient’s psychological state and can be treated by promoting alertness, awareness and monitoring of the patient’s behaviour.

Tension can be relieved by special exercise or massage, which may lead to referrals to physiotherapy specialists.

Orthopaedic treatment can also be used to reduce the damaging effects of gnashing on the teeth. This is done with interocclusal appliances – nightguards. They do not eliminate the cause of bruxism and possible joint dysfunctions, but they help to effectively control nocturnal bruxism and protect the dental hard tissues.

One part of the treatment of bruxism is the restoration of damaged teeth. In the case of minor damage, worn tooth surfaces can be restored with aesthetic fillings or dental veneers. If treatment is delayed, it may require a bite lift, dentures or, if the teeth have been particularly badly damaged by grinding, extraction. The earlier you go to the doctor and the less damaged your teeth are, the quicker and easier the treatment.

If the gnashing is caused by crooked teeth and malocclusion, orthodontic treatment is recommended.