Sleep Bruxism
Sleep
Dental Occlusion, Traumatic
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome
Masticatory Muscles
Sleep Arousal Disorders
Mouth Breathing
Dental Occlusion
Sleep, REM
Sleep Disorders
Temporomandibular Joint
Tooth Attrition
Neurobiological mechanisms involved in sleep bruxism. (1/31)
Sleep bruxism (SB) is reported by 8% of the adult population and is mainly associated with rhythmic masticatory muscle activity (RMMA) characterized by repetitive jaw muscle contractions (3 bursts or more at a frequency of 1 Hz). The consequences of SB may include tooth destruction, jaw pain, headaches, or the limitation of mandibular movement, as well as tooth-grinding sounds that disrupt the sleep of bed partners. SB is probably an extreme manifestation of a masticatory muscle activity occurring during the sleep of most normal subjects, since RMMA is observed in 60% of normal sleepers in the absence of grinding sounds. The pathophysiology of SB is becoming clearer, and there is an abundance of evidence outlining the neurophysiology and neurochemistry of rhythmic jaw movements (RJM) in relation to chewing, swallowing, and breathing. The sleep literature provides much evidence describing the mechanisms involved in the reduction of muscle tone, from sleep onset to the atonia that characterizes rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Several brainstem structures (e.g., reticular pontis oralis, pontis caudalis, parvocellularis) and neurochemicals (e.g., serotonin, dopamine, gamma aminobutyric acid [GABA], noradrenaline) are involved in both the genesis of RJM and the modulation of muscle tone during sleep. It remains unknown why a high percentage of normal subjects present RMMA during sleep and why this activity is three times more frequent and higher in amplitude in SB patients. It is also unclear why RMMA during sleep is characterized by co-activation of both jaw-opening and jaw-closing muscles instead of the alternating jaw-opening and jaw-closing muscle activity pattern typical of chewing. The final section of this review proposes that RMMA during sleep has a role in lubricating the upper alimentary tract and increasing airway patency. The review concludes with an outline of questions for future research. (+info)Tiagabine may reduce bruxism and associated temporomandibular joint pain. (2/31)
Tiagabine is an anticonvulsant gamma-aminobutyric acid reuptake inhibitor commonly used as an add-on treatment of refractory partial seizures in persons over 12 years old. Four of the 5 cases reported here indicate that tiagabine might also be remarkably effective in suppressing nocturnal bruxism, trismus, and consequent morning pain in the teeth, masticatory musculature, jaw, and temporomandibular joint areas. Tiagabine has a benign adverse-effect profile, is easily tolerated, and retains effectiveness over time. Bed partners of these patients report that grinding noises have stopped; therefore, the tiagabine effect is probably not simply antinociceptive. The doses used to suppress nocturnal bruxism at bedtime (4-8 mg) are lower than those used to treat seizures. (+info)Bruxism in children: a warning sign for psychological problems. (3/31)
Bruxism is nonfunctional clenching or grinding of the teeth. It is a destructive habit that may result in tooth wear. Although research on bruxism is extensive, its etiology remains debatable. The literature suggests that bruxism is correlated with both experienced and anticipated life stress. The purpose of this report is to describe 2 cases of severe bruxism in children of similar age with different life histories and to discuss the factors that could have triggered this parafunctional condition. (+info)Sleep bruxism is associated to micro-arousals and an increase in cardiac sympathetic activity. (4/31)
Sleep bruxism (SB) subjects show a higher incidence of rhythmic masticatory muscle activity (RMMA) than control subjects. RMMA is associated with sleep micro-arousals. This study aims to: (i) assess RMMA/SB episodes in relation to sleep cycles; (ii) establish if RMMA/SB and micro-arousals occur in relation to the slow wave activity (SWA) dynamics; (iii) analyze the association between RMMA/SB and autonomic cardiac activity across sleep cycles. Two nights of polygraphic recordings were made in three study groups (20 subjects each): moderate to high SB, low SB and control. RMMA episodes were considered to occur in clusters when several groups of RMMA or non-specific oromotor episodes were separated by less than 100 s. Correlations between sleep, RMMA/SB index and heart rate variability variables were assessed for the first four sleep cycles of each study group. Statistical analyses were done with SYSTAT and SPSS. It was observed that 75.8% of all RMMA/SB episodes occurred in clusters. Micro-arousal and SB indexes were highest during sleep cycles 2 and 3 (P < 0.001). Within each cycle, micro-arousal and RMMA/SB indexes showed an increase before each REM sleep (PPrevalence of bruxism among Mexican children with Down syndrome. (5/31)
This study sought to determine the prevalence of bruxism in a Mexican community of children with Down syndrome, and to evaluate bruxism's relationship with age, sex, intellectual disability level, and type of chromosomal abnormality of trisomy 21. Using a cross-sectional design, 57 boys and girls (3 to 14 years old) were examined. Three approaches to establish presence or absence of bruxism were employed: parental questionnaire, clinical examination, and dental study casts. Data were analysed using bivariate analyses and conditional logistic regression. We found that the overall prevalence of bruxism was 42%. No statistically significant associations between bruxism and age, sex, or intellectual disability level were found. There was, however, a significant association between bruxism and type of chromosomal abnormality, with mosaicism being more frequently associated with bruxism. (+info)Weighing the potential effectiveness of various treatments for sleep bruxism. (6/31)
Sleep bruxism may lead to a variety of problems, but its pathophysiology has not been completely elucidated. As such, there is no definitive treatment, but certain preventive measures and/or drugs may be used in acute cases, particularly those involving pain. This article is intended to guide clinician scientists to the treatment most appropriate for future clinical studies. To determine the best current treatment, 2 measures were used to compare the results of 10 clinical studies on sleep bruxism, 3 involving oral devices and 7 involving pharmacologic therapy. The first measure, the number needed to treat (NNT), allows several randomized clinical studies to be compared and a general conclusion to be drawn. The second measure, effect size, allows evaluation of the impact of treatment relative to a placebo using different studies of similar design. Taking into account the NNT, the effect size and the power of each study, it can be concluded that the following treatments reduce sleep bruxism: mandibular advancement device, clonidine and occlusal splint. However, the first 2 of these have been linked to adverse effects. The occlusal splint is therefore the treatment of choice, as it reduces grinding noise and protects the teeth from premature wear with no reported adverse effects. The NNT could not be calculated for an alternative pharmacologic treatment, short-term clonazepam therapy, which had a large effect size and reduced the average bruxism index. However, the risk of dependency limits its use over long periods. Assessment of efficacy and safety of the most promising treatments will require studies with larger sample sizes over longer periods. (+info)Associations of reported bruxism with insomnia and insufficient sleep symptoms among media personnel with or without irregular shift work. (7/31)
(+info)Identification of the occurrence and pattern of masseter muscle activities during sleep using EMG and accelerometer systems. (8/31)
(+info)Sleep bruxism is a sleep-related movement disorder characterized by the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth and jaw muscle activity during sleep, which can lead to tooth wear, jaw pain, headaches, and other oral health issues. It is typically considered a parasomnia, which is a type of abnormal behavior that occurs during sleep. The exact causes of sleep bruxism are not fully understood, but it may be associated with stress, certain medications, alcohol and drug use, and other factors. Treatment options can include stress management techniques, dental guards to protect the teeth, and in some cases, medication.
Bruxism is the medical term for grinding or clenching your teeth. It's often an unconscious habit that can occur during the day or at night (nocturnal bruxism). Mild bruxism may not require treatment, but chronic, severe grinding can lead to jaw disorders, headaches, and damaged teeth.
There are several potential causes of bruxism, including stress, anxiety, certain medications, alcohol and drug use, and sleep disorders. Dentists often diagnose bruxism based on the visible signs of wear on your teeth, or they may ask you about symptoms you're experiencing. Treatment for bruxism can include stress management techniques, dental guards to protect your teeth during sleep, and in some cases, medication.
Tooth wear is the progressive loss of tooth structure that can occur as a result of various factors. According to the medical definition, it refers to the wearing down, rubbing away, or grinding off of the hard tissues of the teeth (enamel and dentin) due to mechanical forces or chemical processes.
There are three primary types of tooth wear:
1. Abrasion: This is the loss of tooth structure caused by friction from external sources, such as incorrect brushing techniques, bite appliances, or habits like nail-biting and pipe smoking.
2. Attrition: This type of tooth wear results from the natural wearing down of teeth due to occlusal forces during biting, chewing, and grinding. However, excessive attrition can occur due to bruxism (teeth grinding) or clenching.
3. Erosion: Chemical processes, such as acid attacks from dietary sources (e.g., citrus fruits, sodas, and sports drinks) or gastric reflux, cause the loss of tooth structure in this type of tooth wear. The enamel dissolves when exposed to low pH levels, leaving the dentin underneath vulnerable to further damage.
Professional dental examination and treatment may be necessary to address significant tooth wear and prevent further progression, which can lead to sensitivity, pain, and functional or aesthetic issues.
Sleep is a complex physiological process characterized by altered consciousness, relatively inhibited sensory activity, reduced voluntary muscle activity, and decreased interaction with the environment. It's typically associated with specific stages that can be identified through electroencephalography (EEG) patterns. These stages include rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, associated with dreaming, and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, which is further divided into three stages.
Sleep serves a variety of functions, including restoration and strengthening of the immune system, support for growth and development in children and adolescents, consolidation of memory, learning, and emotional regulation. The lack of sufficient sleep or poor quality sleep can lead to significant health problems, such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even cognitive decline.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) defines sleep as "a period of daily recurring natural rest during which consciousness is suspended and metabolic processes are reduced." However, it's important to note that the exact mechanisms and purposes of sleep are still being researched and debated among scientists.
Dental occlusion, traumatic is a term used to describe an abnormal bite or contact between the upper and lower teeth that results in trauma or injury to the oral structures. This can occur when there is a discrepancy in the alignment of the teeth or jaws, such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, which causes excessive force or pressure on certain teeth or tissues.
Traumatic dental occlusion can result in various dental and oral health issues, including tooth wear, fractures, mobility of teeth, gum recession, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. It is important to diagnose and treat traumatic dental occlusion early to prevent further damage and alleviate any discomfort or pain. Treatment options may include orthodontic treatment, adjustment of the bite, restoration of damaged teeth, or a combination of these approaches.
The masseter muscle is a strong chewing muscle in the jaw. It is a broad, thick, quadrilateral muscle that extends from the zygomatic arch (cheekbone) to the lower jaw (mandible). The masseter muscle has two distinct parts: the superficial part and the deep part.
The superficial part of the masseter muscle originates from the lower border of the zygomatic process of the maxilla and the anterior two-thirds of the inferior border of the zygomatic arch. The fibers of this part run almost vertically downward to insert on the lateral surface of the ramus of the mandible and the coronoid process.
The deep part of the masseter muscle originates from the deep surface of the zygomatic arch and inserts on the medial surface of the ramus of the mandible, blending with the temporalis tendon.
The primary function of the masseter muscle is to elevate the mandible, helping to close the mouth and clench the teeth together during mastication (chewing). It also plays a role in stabilizing the jaw during biting and speaking. The masseter muscle is one of the most powerful muscles in the human body relative to its size.
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome, often abbreviated as TMJD or TMD, is a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) - the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. Here's a more detailed medical definition:
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome is a complex disorder characterized by pain, clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the TMJ; limited movement or locking of the jaw; and/or painful chewing movements. The condition may be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle tension, joint inflammation, structural problems with the joint itself, or injury to the head, neck, or jaw.
Symptoms of TMJD can include:
- Pain or tenderness in the face, jaw joint area, neck, and/or shoulders
- Limited ability to open the mouth wide
- Jaw locking, making it difficult to close or open the mouth
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the TMJ when opening or closing the mouth
- A significant change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together
- Headaches, earaches, dizziness, and hearing problems
Treatment for TMJD can vary depending on the severity of the condition and its underlying cause. It may include self-care practices such as eating soft foods, avoiding extreme jaw movements, and practicing relaxation techniques; physical therapy; medication to reduce pain and inflammation; dental treatments such as mouthguards or bite adjustments; and, in rare cases, surgery.
The medical term for nail biting is "Onychophagia." It's classified as a type of body-focused repetitive behavior, which is a category of mental health disorders characterized by the repeated compulsion to engage in certain self-grooming behaviors that cause physical damage. In the case of onychophagia, the individual repeatedly bites their nails, often until they bleed or become severely damaged. This can lead to various complications, such as infection and dental issues. It's important to note that while nail biting is a common habit, when it becomes repetitive, compulsive, and causes significant distress or impairment, it may be indicative of a broader mental health condition.
Masticatory muscles are a group of skeletal muscles responsible for the mastication (chewing) process in humans and other animals. They include:
1. Masseter muscle: This is the primary muscle for chewing and is located on the sides of the face, running from the lower jawbone (mandible) to the cheekbone (zygomatic arch). It helps close the mouth and elevate the mandible during chewing.
2. Temporalis muscle: This muscle is situated in the temporal region of the skull, covering the temple area. It assists in closing the jaw, retracting the mandible, and moving it sideways during chewing.
3. Medial pterygoid muscle: Located deep within the cheek, near the angle of the lower jaw, this muscle helps move the mandible forward and grind food during chewing. It also contributes to closing the mouth.
4. Lateral pterygoid muscle: Found inside the ramus (the vertical part) of the mandible, this muscle has two heads - superior and inferior. The superior head helps open the mouth by pulling the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) downwards, while the inferior head assists in moving the mandible sideways during chewing.
These muscles work together to enable efficient chewing and food breakdown, preparing it for swallowing and digestion.
Sleep arousal disorders are a category of sleep disorders that involve the partial or complete awakening from sleep, often accompanied by confusion and disorientation. These disorders are characterized by an abnormal arousal process during sleep, which can result in brief periods of wakefulness or full awakenings. The most common types of sleep arousal disorders include sleepwalking (somnambulism), sleep talking (somniloquy), and night terrors (pavor nocturnus).
In sleepwalking, the individual may get out of bed and walk around while still asleep, often with a blank stare and without any memory of the event. Sleep talking can occur in various levels of sleep and may range from simple sounds to complex conversations. Night terrors are episodes of intense fear and agitation during sleep, often accompanied by screams or cries for help, rapid heart rate, and sweating.
These disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, fever, certain medications, alcohol consumption, and underlying medical conditions such as sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome. They can also occur as a result of genetic predisposition. Sleep arousal disorders can have significant impacts on an individual's quality of life, leading to fatigue, daytime sleepiness, impaired cognitive function, and decreased overall well-being. Treatment options may include behavioral therapy, medication, or addressing any underlying medical conditions.
Mouth breathing is a condition characterized by the regular habit of breathing through the mouth instead of the nose during awake states and sometimes during sleep. This can occur due to various reasons such as nasal congestion, deviated septum, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, or structural abnormalities in the jaw or airway. Prolonged mouth breathing can lead to several oral and general health issues, including dry mouth, bad breath, gum disease, and orthodontic problems. It can also affect sleep quality and cognitive function.
Dental occlusion refers to the alignment and contact between the upper and lower teeth when the jaws are closed. It is the relationship between the maxillary (upper) and mandibular (lower) teeth when they approach each other, as occurs during chewing or biting.
A proper dental occlusion, also known as a balanced occlusion, ensures that the teeth and jaw joints function harmoniously, reducing the risk of tooth wear, damage, and temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Malocclusion, on the other hand, refers to improper alignment or contact between the upper and lower teeth, which may require orthodontic treatment or dental restorations to correct.
REM sleep, or Rapid Eye Movement sleep, is a stage of sleep characterized by rapid eye movements, low muscle tone, and active brain activity. It is one of the two main types of sleep along with non-REM sleep and is marked by vivid dreaming, increased brain metabolism, and altered brain wave patterns. REM sleep is often referred to as "paradoxical sleep" because of the seemingly contradictory nature of its characteristics - an active brain in a state of relaxation. It is thought to play a role in memory consolidation, learning, and mood regulation. A typical night's sleep cycle includes several episodes of REM sleep, with each episode becoming longer as the night progresses.
Sleep disorders are a group of conditions that affect the ability to sleep well on a regular basis. They can include problems with falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early in the morning. These disorders can be caused by various factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, medical conditions, or substance abuse.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) recognizes over 80 distinct sleep disorders, which are categorized into the following major groups:
1. Insomnia - difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
2. Sleep-related breathing disorders - abnormal breathing during sleep such as obstructive sleep apnea.
3. Central disorders of hypersomnolence - excessive daytime sleepiness, including narcolepsy.
4. Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders - disruption of the internal body clock that regulates the sleep-wake cycle.
5. Parasomnias - abnormal behaviors during sleep such as sleepwalking or night terrors.
6. Sleep-related movement disorders - repetitive movements during sleep such as restless legs syndrome.
7. Isolated symptoms and normal variants - brief and occasional symptoms that do not warrant a specific diagnosis.
Sleep disorders can have significant impacts on an individual's quality of life, productivity, and overall health. If you suspect that you may have a sleep disorder, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a sleep specialist for proper evaluation and treatment.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the articulation between the mandible (lower jaw) and the temporal bone of the skull. It's a complex joint that involves the movement of two bones, several muscles, and various ligaments. The TMJ allows for movements like rotation and translation, enabling us to open and close our mouth, chew, speak, and yawn. Dysfunction in this joint can lead to temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), which can cause pain, discomfort, and limited jaw movement.
Tooth attrition is a type of wear on the teeth that results from normal dental occlusal forces during biting, chewing, and grinding of food. It involves the loss of tooth structure by mechanical forces and is typically seen as a flattening or reduction in the vertical height of the crowns of teeth.
Attrition differs from other types of tooth wear such as abrasion (which is caused by external factors like toothbrush bristles, toothpaste, or habitual pen/pencil biting), erosion (which is caused by chemical dissolution of tooth structure due to acid exposure), and abfraction (which is caused by flexural forces leading to cervical lesions).
While some degree of attrition is considered a normal part of the aging process, excessive attrition can lead to dental sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and even affect the functionality of the teeth and overall oral health. Dental professionals may recommend various treatments such as fillings, crowns, or even orthodontic interventions to manage the consequences of severe tooth attrition.