Bruxism refers to an oral parafunctional
activity which occurs in most humans at some point in their lives. The
grinding of the teeth and the clenching of the jaw are the two main
characteristics of this condition, which can occur either during the day
or at night.
Bruxism is one of the most common known sleep
disorders and causes most of its damage during sleeping hours. The
clenching and grinding which accompanies bruxism is symptomatic of a
malfunctioning chewing reflex, which is turned off in non-sufferers when
sleeping. For sufferers, deep sleep or even naps, cause the reflex
nerve control center in the brain to turn off, and the reflex pathways
to become active.
Typically, the incisors and canines (front 6
upper and lower teeth) of opposing arches grind against each other
laterally. This side to side action puts undue strain on the medial
pterygoid muscles and the temporomandibular joints. Earache,
depression, headaches, eating disorders and anxiety are amongst the most
common symptoms of bruxism; which often accompanies chronic stress,
Alzheimer’s disease and alcohol abuse.
Bruxism is frequently misdiagnosed or not
diagnosed at all, because it is only one of several potential causes of
tooth wear. Only a trained professional can tell the difference between
bruxing wear and wear caused by overly aggressive brushing, acidic soft
drinks and abrasive foods.
A BiteStrip® is an economical device
used to diagnose bruxism at home. The device itself is a small
electromyography which senses and monitors any activity in the jaw
muscles during sleep. The frequency and severity of the condition can
then be assessed and the best treatment plan can be formulated.
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