Bite Disharmony

Grinding

Bruxism is characterized by the grinding of the teeth and is typically accompanied by the clenching of the jaw. It is an oral parafunctional activity that occurs in most of us at some time in our lives. In most people, bruxism is mild enough not to be a health problem. Whilst  bruxism may be day or night activity  in most cases  it is during sleep that causes the majority of health issues. It can even occur during short naps. Bruxism is one of the most common sleep disorders.
Grinding the teeth can cause wear. The canines and the front incisors wear first. The enamel can be lost exposing the soft dentine underneath which results in sensitivity and pain.
Management of bruxism is based on minimizing the abrasion of tooth surfaces by the wearing of an acrylic dental guard or splint designed to the shape of an individual’s upper or lower teeth from a bite mould. A dental guard is typically worn on a long-term basis during every night’s sleep. Although mouth guards are a first response to bruxism, they do not cure it. Another type of device sometimes given to a bruxist is a repositioning splint. A repositioning splint may look similar to a traditional night guard, but is designed to change the occlusion, or bite, of the patient.