How To Tell if a Patient Has Bruxism (and How To Help)

Bruxism is the technical term for teeth grinding or clenching, and it is incredibly common. Unfortunately, the behavior can lead to tooth damage, jaw disorders, tinnitus, and other complications. If you’re a dentist, it’s important to know how to tell if a patient has bruxism and how to help them protect their oral health and get relief.

Recognizing the Signs of Bruxism

Diagnosing bruxism starts with paying close attention to both physical and behavioral indicators in your patients. The most common sign is excessive tooth wear, such as flattened biting surfaces or chipped enamel. You might also notice indentations on the tongue or irritation along the inner cheeks.

Pay attention when patients report jaw soreness, headaches (especially upon waking), or ear pain without an infection present. Also, ask about lifestyle factors. Stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances often correlate with bruxism. If a patient has a demanding schedule or gets poor sleep, they may be at higher risk.

Most of the time, several symptoms are present. If you notice one, check for others.

Diagnostic Tools and Confirmation

While clinical observation can correctly diagnose bruxism, using diagnostic tools strengthens your assessment. Check for unusual wear patterns and underlying damage to the teeth or jaw with dental impressions and x-rays.

Occasionally, a sleep study could be helpful to detect grinding patterns during rest, especially for suspected nocturnal bruxism.

Treatment Options for Bruxism

Once you’ve confirmed the diagnosis, the next step is creating a customized treatment plan. First and foremost, you should recommend night guards to your patient because they protect teeth against grinding during sleep.

For severe cases, Botox injections might be useful. These have been shown to reduce clenching intensity and alleviate associated discomfort.

Lifestyle changes play a vital role in long-term management. Advise patients to reduce caffeine intake and avoid habits such as gum chewing or nail biting, which can exacerbate muscle tension. Additionally, if anxiety is the cause behind a patient’s bruxism, you might recommend therapy and mindfulness activities.

Knowing how to tell if a patient has bruxism is just the first step in delivering effective care. By identifying symptoms early, incorporating diagnostic tools, and offering tailored treatment, you provide relief and prevent future complications for your patients.