Bruxism is another name for habitually clenching and grinding the teeth together. Most of the time an individual is not even aware that they are grinding their teeth together and it takes someone pointing it out before they do something about it. It is also common for it to only occur while sleeping. In this case, it is called Sleep Bruxism.
Nobody is immune to having Bruxism. It happens in both children and adults. Bruxism is not a major medical concern like cancer but it can cause major damage to your teeth and mouth. Teeth can become ground down and the enamel broken. Eventually, they can break and the end result is pain, earaches, mouth abrasions and problems with the jaw.
The exact cause of Bruxism has not yet been determined. Scientists have been able to pinpoint a variety of characteristics that people who suffer with Bruxism often have in common: Anger, diet, Anxiety, posture, aggressive or competitive personality or people with teeth that are not aligned correctly.
There are many options for treating Bruxism. The top three goals of any treatment plan should be: Stop the pain, not allow the teeth to become permanently damaged and to change the habits of clenching and grinding the teeth.
If someone has alerted you that you are clenching or grinding your teeth then the person to talk to would be your dentist. They will probably give you an insert to put in your mouth that prevents you from grinding your teeth together. You will be told to wear this whenever possible and most importantly at night.
Serious cases of Bruxism often requires surgery. Less serious cases can be treated with a medication such as a muscle relaxant or sleep aid. If you are looking to go with medication then make sure that you are aware of the side effects.
There are several alternative therapies that have worked really well for others with Bruxism symptoms. You can meditate, use biofeedback techniques, hypnosis or stress management techniques.
Herbal medicine has also worked well for others. St John's Wort, Lavender, Melissa Officinalis and Passiflora Incarnata are all helpful in lowering your tension and as a result make it less likely that you will grind your teeth. Herbal teas also help a lot. Try a tea that has hops, lemon balm, passion flower and/or peppermint in it. They will help you relax and are good to use when you are feeling extra anxious. Talk with a homeopath to come up with a plan that will work best for you. Try to avoid caffeine because it tends to cause anxiety.
Author Resource:-
Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Cert. Aromatherapist & natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Natural Holistic Health Blog which offers info on more natural home remedies & healing techniques for common health & emotional ailments and conditions at http://www.Natural-Holistic-Health.com/
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