Tooth Structure Loss II

Bruxism

Bruxism, or teeth grinding can be a cause of loss of tooth structure. One study found that patients that have symptoms related to grinding are often those that only grind occasionally. Patients with a long history of bruxism may be more destructive but experience less pain.

Three possible causes are bite discrpancies, emotional issues, and systemic problems. Prevalence is not known with studies indicating anywhere from 90% to 4% of the population exhibiting bruxism. There is little evidence that supports bite problems as being a primary cause, but bruxism may be more related to emotional conditions and stress release. Medication side efffects are also a contributing factor.

Regardless of the cause, bite plane therapy can be very effective for those with symptoms and helpful to protect tooth structure in those with no symptoms.