Bruxism is a condition in which you grind your teeth or clench your jaw when sleeping or during other activities. It can have many causes, but one factor that can contribute to bruxism is orthodontic treatment. In this article, we’ll explain the link between orthodontics and bruxism, and suggest ways of managing it.
The Link Between Orthodontic Treatment and Bruxism
The primary way that orthodontic treatment can lead to bruxism is through occlusal, or bite, issues. When the teeth and jaw don’t fit together properly due to misalignment of the teeth, it can lead to problems with the jaw joints and muscles, which in turn can cause bruxism.
Types of Orthodontic Treatment That Can Affect Your Bite
If you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, there are certain types of treatments that may affect your bite. For example, if you’re having braces put on, they may need to be adjusted to ensure your teeth fit together correctly when you close your mouth. Additionally, any type of appliance that affects the position of your jaw can cause changes to your bite.
Symptoms of Bruxism Caused By Orthodontic Treatment
The symptoms of bruxism caused by orthodontics may include headaches, facial pain, jaw discomfort, and an inability to open or close the jaw fully. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to speak to your orthodontist about how best to manage them.
Managing Bruxism Caused By Orthodontic Treatment
There are several ways that you can manage bruxism caused by orthodontics. These include wearing a night guard while sleeping, performing relaxation exercises, avoiding foods with hard textures that require too much chewing, and making regular visits to your orthodontist for adjustment or repair of your orthodontic appliance.
Conclusion
Bruxism caused by orthodontic treatment can be managed with the right approach. If you’re experiencing symptoms of bruxism that may be related to your orthodontic treatment, it’s important to speak to your orthodontist so they can help you find the best solutions.
FAQs
Q: Can braces cause bruxism?
A: Yes, in some cases, misalignment due to braces can cause occlusal issues that lead to bruxism.
Q: What are the symptoms of bruxism caused by orthodontic treatment?
A: The symptoms of bruxism caused by orthodontics may include headaches, facial pain, jaw discomfort, and an inability to open or close the jaw fully.
Q: How can I manage bruxism caused by orthodontic treatment?
A: There are several ways that you can manage bruxism caused by orthodontics. These include wearing a night guard while sleeping, performing relaxation exercises, avoiding foods with hard textures that require too much chewing, and making regular visits to your dentist for adjustment or repair of your orthodontic appliance.