Introduction
Teeth grinding is excessive tooth contact between the upper and lower teeth. Statically it is called pressing, dynamically it is called grinding (bruxism). Normally, upper and lower teeth are in contact only during swallowing and chewing.
At rest there is an average distance of 2 mm between the teeth (resting position). In case of bruxism (teeth grinding) this distance is not maintained and the teeth come into contact excessively often under sometimes high loads. Teeth grinding takes place both during the day and at night during sleep and has various negative consequences for the teeth and the entire masticatory system.
The repeated moving/pressing of the teeth against each other causes loss of enamel (attrition). This usually affects first the canines and then the front and side teeth. The loss of enamel can continue until dentin is exposed and the teeth become excessively sensitive. The constant overloading of the teeth can lead to tooth fractures, especially root canal treated teeth are at risk. In the long term, both can ultimately lead to tooth loss.
Stress due to teeth grinding
The constant strain on the teeth often leads to overloading of the chewing muscles. On the one hand, this leads to locally radiating pain and, on the other hand, to tension which can continue into the neck or back muscles. This can lead to mouth opening problems or posture problems.
These muscle complaints can also provoke headaches or reduce the ability to concentrate. In addition to the muscles, the periodontium is also overloaded, which leads to permanent irritation of the periodontium. This provokes and promotes inflammations.
This can lead to receding bone and thus receding gums. This has a negative effect on the teeth in addition to attrition. The temporomandibular joint as an important component of the masticatory system is also negatively affected by bruxism.
Excessive wear and tear of the temporomandibular joint and the surrounding cartilage can lead to temporomandibular joint catarrhosis. An overstrained or inflamed temporomandibular joint has a negative effect on the ear due to its close proximity to the ear. This can lead to tinnitus, dizziness or impaired balance, for example. The consequences of teeth grinding depend on the frequency and, above all, the severity of the grinding and therefore vary from patient to patient.