Bruxism
Teeth Grinding Treatment
Bruxism causes excessive and unnecessary teeth-grinding and/or clenching of the jaw. It can occur during sleep or whilst the patient is awake.
Bruxism is estimated to affect up to 30% of the population. When the symptoms are mild, the may not even be aware of the condition.
However, in more severe cases, it can result in a series of unpleasant consequences, which include:
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aching/tired jaw
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headaches
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hypersensitive teeth
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unnatural tooth wear, which could then require remedial dental work such as crowns, fillings or even tooth replacement.
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How can bruxism be treated?
The most common treatments for bruxism are typically directed at the symptoms, rather than the cause; for example, repairing the damage to teeth or providing dental splints.
In some cases, medication may be used – such as anti-depressant or muscle relaxant, although there is little, if any, clinical evidence for the efficacy of this approach in dealing with bruxism.
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Treatment for bruxism
LE SISS CLINIC offers treatment to help patients who suffer bruxism. This treatment has the distinct advantage of dealing with the cause of the problem rather than its consequences.
Botox injections are used to weaken the masticatory muscles sufficiently enough to reduce bruxism by lessening the muscles’ ability to clench and grind the jaw. The treatment involves around 5-6 injections which are carefully administered in order to retain all the normal functions of chewing, talking and smiling.
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Who should consider botox for bruxism treatment?
This treatment could be considered for those that have persistent bruxism problems either whilst the patient is awake or asleep.
However, in line with botox guidelines, treatment is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding mums.
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How quickly does it work?Depending on the individual, patients may start feeling the effects the next day.
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How long do the effects last?Botox injections usually last for around 3-6 months, after which time treatment can be repeated to maintain the benefit. Some patients may find that treatment helps them to break the cycle, so the habit may even stop after the botox has worn off.
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Are ther any side effects?Occasionally some localised bruising can occur, but this is quite rare and can usually be masked with make-up.
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What evidence is there for this treatments?Overall, clinical studies support the efficacy of Botox to reduce pain in the muscles of the jaw. One study shows that Botox “reduces the frequency of bruxism events, decrease bruxism-induced pain levels and satisfy patients’ self-assessment. In another study, all patients treated with Botox have declared “a good/very good improvement in symptoms”.