We all deal with stress. The causes may vary, but
perception is reality and we will always deal with some form of stress
throughout our lives. So we need to find healthy ways to deal with or manage
our stressors. If not, it could lead to health problems like irritable bowel
syndrome, excessive sweating, hair loss, insomnia, fatigue, and teeth grinding.
Research has shown a strong relationship between stress
and teeth grinding (bruxism). This doesn’t mean that everyone will grind their
teeth when they become more stressed, but there is an increased risk. If the
bruxism is not controlled or the teeth are not protected, it can lead to
headaches, jaw pain, and fractured teeth. Since we cannot control the stress in
your life, our goal is to protect the teeth. The best solution is a custom made
night guard.
There are a variety of ways to make a night guard. It can
be made to fit over the top teeth or the bottom teeth. It can cover all of the
teeth or only a few. We recommend discussing the pros and cons of each
appliance with your dentist to determine which one is best for your situation
and comfort level. However, we strongly discourage the use of over the counter
night guards. While they may provide a barrier between the teeth, they are more
likely to cause joint problems than a custom made guard.
A final theory on stress, health, and grinding your
teeth: new studies indicate a relationship with bruxism and sleep apnea. The
theory is people grind their teeth when they sleep because they have trouble
breathing. If you have sleep apnea, then grind your teeth, then wake up tired
with a headache, the chances of you being stressed is increased. If you have
any concerns you may be snoring or sleep apnea, we recommend getting a sleep
study to ensure you are being treated properly.
For more information, visit www.dentistwestchester.com.
Lee T. Brown, DDS
Brown and Kupper, DDS
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