Bruxism – Gnashing of teeth

Bruxism is the word taken from Greek word “brychein” which means gnashing of teeth. Brychein means different things to different experts. It is basically grinding of the teeth, typically accompanied by clenching of the jaw. It is an oral parafunctional activity which occurs in most of the humans.

Bruxism in other words is the medical term for clenching or gnashing your teeth. Often it happens that people with bruxism unknowingly clench their teeth together during day time. This is different from tooth grinding or clenching that occurs at night. Adults who are affected with bruxism do it at day time or night time while children’s do at night time.

Bruxism can result in chipped broken, reduced teeth, loose teeth or even receding gums. Now bruxism can be mild and at times it if not treated in time then it can be severe leading to jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth and other problems.

As bruxism mostly occurs while people are sleeping, therefore they are not aware of this habit and so they are not diagnosed with the condition until complications occur. Due to this it is important to know all the signs and symptoms of bruxism at regular intervals.

Basically to avoid Bruxism, you should visit your Dentist regularly. If you become aware of the problem at start, then it can be avoided just by stopping clenching, gnashing of teeth.