Hypnotherapy for bruxism
Bruxism is when someone grinds their teeth together or clenches their jaw.
Most people who suffer from bruxism are unaware that they are doing it. This can be because there are no symptoms, or because the symptoms are not associated with a clenching and grinding problem. It often happens while concentrating, under stress or during sleep.
Symptoms of Bruxism
If there are symptoms they can include:
- facial pain
- headaches
- earache
- worn-down teeth, which can lead to increased sensitivity and even tooth loss
- pain and stiffness in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles
- disrupted sleep
- A burning sensation on the tongue
- Hypersensitive teeth
- broken teeth or fillings
What causes bruxism?
The cause isn’t always clear. Stress and anxiety can contribute to bruxism. There is growing evidence that a stressful lifestyle can contribute. Some consider emotional stress to be the main triggering factor. Some reports indicate that people with bruxism respond differently to stress, hostility and depression. Children with bruxism have been shown to have greater levels of anxiety than children without bruxism. Work-related stress and irregular work shifts may also be contribute. Aggressive, competitive or hyperactive personality types are more likely to suffer. Suggesting that suppressed anger or frustration can contribute to bruxism. It can be affected by stressful periods. Bereavement, marriage, divorce, examination or relocating can all have an effect.
Chewing and clenching
Chewing is something we do consciously and subconsciously. Most of the time chewing food is a subconscious process – we are not normally aware we are doing it. For people who do not suffer from bruxism the jaw is normally at rest and the teeth are not in contact unless eating, swallowing or talking. You teeth are normally only in contact for about 20 minutes a day in total. During sleep the jaw is usually open and the muscles relaxed. Bruxism can be considered a subconscious habit. Some people with bruxism have a chewing like rhythmic motion that last less than a second, and some have a longer bite 1 to 30 seconds more like clenching.
How to treat bruxism
Bruxism can be difficult to understand if the person isn’t fully aware of doing it. You can get as much information as possible. Does it occur during the day or during sleep? Is the bruxism a grinding or clenching action. Are the periods during which is occurs more, or less. What stress does the person suffer from, is it work stress, emotional stress. How does the person deal with stress, anxiety and depression. Find the likely causes and deal with them along with other general lifestyle changes.