Bruxism
What is bruxism, and how is teeth clenching and grinding treated? Medical information about night guards (occlusal splints) and bruxism treatment processes.
Bruxism (Treatment of Teeth Clenching and Grinding)
In our clinical practice, bruxism is a neuromuscular and multifactorial functional disorder characterized by the forceful clenching or grinding of the teeth, usually during sleep (sleep bruxism) or involuntarily during the day (daytime bruxism). This condition, which may occur due to causes such as stress, anxiety, occlusal disorders (malocclusion), or sleep disturbances, can over time lead to serious damage in both the dental tissues and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Our main goal in treatment is to absorb the excessive force placed on the teeth and chewing muscles, protect the dental tissues from wear and fractures, and provide the patient with painless jaw function by preserving the anatomical balance of the jaw joint.
In Which Clinical Conditions Do We Apply It?
In patients who wake up in the morning with fatigue, stiffness in the jaw muscles, and temple and headache,
When there is noticeable wear on the chewing surfaces of the teeth, loss of vertical dimension, enamel cracks, or frequent fractures of fillings/crowns,
When gum recession and wedge-shaped notches at the tooth necks due to mechanical pressure (abfraction lesions) are observed,
In complaints of sounds (clicking, cracking) coming from the jaw joint (TMJ), jaw locking, or restricted mouth opening,
In cases where the individual produces nighttime teeth-grinding sounds at a level that disturbs the surrounding environment.
What Are the Clinical Benefits?
Protects Tooth and Restoration Integrity: Thanks to custom-made transparent night guards (occlusal splints), it absorbs excessive load and protects tooth enamel from wear, cracking, and restorations from damage.
Relieves Muscle and Joint Pressure: Stops hyperactivity in the chewing muscles (especially the masseter and temporal muscles); by balancing the load on the jaw joint, it prevents muscle spasms and chronic head/neck pain.
Improves Sleep Quality and Comfort: By preventing disc deformities and lockjaw in the jaw joint, it helps the patient have a more comfortable and restful sleep process.
The success of bruxism treatment depends on correctly identifying the source of the problem, preparing the night guard (splint) correctly with individualized occlusal analysis, combining it with auxiliary medical applications when necessary (for example, masseter Botox), and the patient's discipline in using the guard.
Legal Notice and Information
This content has been prepared solely to inform patients and the public within the framework of the Law No. 1219 on the Methods of Practicing Medicine and Its Branches and the Regulation on Promotional and Information Activities in Health Services. The information contained herein cannot be used for the diagnosis or treatment of diseases. To scientifically determine the most appropriate treatment option for your teeth clenching and grinding complaints, you must consult a specialist dentist and undergo an in-person clinical examination.
