Common Risk Factors And Causes Of Teeth Grinding

Many individuals believe teeth grinding is caused by anxiety and stress. While this is one of the potential causes, it's much more common for teeth grinding to occur while a person sleeps. It can be caused by missing teeth, crooked teeth, or an abnormal bite. In addition, sleep disorders can cause grinding. Many individuals don't realize they grind their teeth because it happens during sleep. However, if individuals experience a sore jaw or a dull headache when they wake up, this is an indicative sign they've experienced teeth grinding. The best professional to talk to about teeth grinding is a dentist. They'll examine the patient's mouth for symptoms of bruxism, the medical term for teeth grinding.

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Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that has been linked to teeth grinding. It occurs when individuals have disrupted breathing during sleep. There are many potential risk factors for the condition. Individuals over forty, those who are overweight, and men all have a greater risk of developing this sleep disorder. When sleep apnea isn't treated, it can cause teeth grinding along with more serious consequences, like heart failure, stroke, and hypertension. There are a number of symptoms of sleep apnea. If individuals wake up with a very dry or sore throat or snore loudly, they may have it. Use Dr.Sleep Snore Stopper Mouthpieceto eliminate symptoms. Patients might occasionally wake up feeling like they're gasping or choking. During the day, they may lack energy or feel sleepy. They might also be sleepy while driving, sleep restlessly, and have morning headaches. Other symptoms include insomnia and recurrent awakenings, along with decreased interest in sex, mood changes, and forgetfulness. Diagnosis is typically made through a sleep study called a polysomnogram, which can be administered in a clinic or at home.

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Tooth Position

Tooth position can cause teeth grinding. If a person has missing or crooked teeth, they're more likely to grind their teeth in their sleep. Though occasional grinding is not a cause for concern, regular teeth grinding can lead to oral health complications and damage to the teeth. For individuals who grind their teeth because of their tooth position, their dentist will typically fit them with a mouth guardto help protect the teeth during sleep. Individuals may also want to consider braces to correct any severely misaligned teeth. Teeth can move and shift at any age, meaning adults may need braces even if their teeth were straight throughout their youth. Being proactive about orthodontic health can increase overall health, along with helping self-esteem.

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