Stress-Induced Bruxism
Stress-induced bruxism is a form of teeth grinding or clenching triggered by stress, anxiety, or emotional tension. This unconscious activity often occurs during sleep but can also happen during the day.
Stress-induced bruxism can lead to a range of issues, including:
- tooth damage,
- jaw joint pain,
- headaches, and
- muscular tension in the jaw and neck area.
Typical symptoms include worn-down teeth, toothache, jaw pain, and a clicking sound in the jaw joint.
Diagnosis is often made through a dental examination and a review of the patient’s medical history. Treatments include stress management techniques, the use of dental splints to protect the teeth, and sometimes physiotherapy or medications to relax the jaw muscles. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term damage and improve quality of life.