Bruxism/Occlusion

Bruxism is a condition whereby patients clench their teeth when they are sleeping (or are awake).

The main causes of bruxism are stress and quite often the malocclusion of the teeth in relation to jaw alignment. Joint and muscle pains are frequent. Bruxism is primarily treated by controlling/correcting the occlusion and using night guards (usually on the upper teeth), which act as muscle relaxants. These also protect the teeth from the excessive forces that are applied and can cause long-term mobility issues, increased wear, as well as muscle and joint pain.