WHY YOU SHOULD NOT IGNORE BRUXISM: YOUR MENTAL AND ORAL HEALTH ARE CONNECTED

Do you grind your teeth without realizing it? Does your jaw hurt when you wake up? What many call "accumulated stress" could actually be a sign of bruxism, a disorder that goes beyond dental issues. It’s not just about tooth wear: it can also affect your sleep, joints, and emotional health.

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Bruxism is the unconscious act of clenching or grinding your teeth, commonly at night. While it is often associated with stress, it can also be linked to dental misalignment, sleep apnea, or mild neurological disorders.

Why is it a serious problem?

Untreated bruxism can lead to:

Tooth wear and fractures

• Jaw and neck pain

• Chronic headaches

• Sleep disorders

• Difficulty chewing or speaking

Factors such as stress, anxiety, caffeine consumption, and certain medications are linked to bruxism. According to the Mayo Clinic, bruxism is more common in young adults, but it can persist throughout life if left untreated or not addressed when noticed.

How can it be prevented?

• Use of dental splints or mouthguards at night.

• Stress management techniques such as meditation or psychological therapy.

• Jaw relaxation exercises and physical therapy.

• Correction of dental alignment issues.

• Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco.

Do you want to address your dental situation? Contact us and discover our all-inclusive medical offer to help you improve your quality of life.