Do you wake up with unexplained jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth? You may be suffering from Bruxism, a condition characterized by involuntary teeth grinding or clenching during sleep. While it is often managed by a dentist, it can also be a symptom of an underlying sleep disorder. Our dual board-certified sleep specialist, Dr. Harneet Singh, at Premier Lung & Sleep Institute, can provide a comprehensive evaluation to determine if your bruxism is related to a more significant sleep-related issue, such as sleep apnea.
Request an AppointmentThe Connection Between Bruxism and Sleep
Sleep-related bruxism is a sleep-related movement disorder. When it occurs, it can disrupt your sleep and lead to dental issues, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and tension headaches. For many individuals, bruxism is not an isolated problem but rather a symptom of another condition, most notably Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Research has shown a strong link between the two, as a person may clench their jaw or grind their teeth in an effort to open their airway during an apnea event.
Our Evaluation and Management
Dr. Singh will conduct a thorough consultation to understand your symptoms and sleep patterns. A polysomnography (sleep study) may be recommended to monitor your brain waves, breathing, and jaw movements during the night to determine if your bruxism is linked to a more serious sleep disorder.
If OSA is diagnosed, treating the underlying condition with therapies like CPAP or an oral appliance can often resolve the bruxism. We also offer Botox injections in the masseter muscle to help with symptoms and pain due to clenching. We will work in collaboration with your dentist to ensure a comprehensive and effective treatment plan.
Find the Root Cause and Get Relief
Don’t just treat the symptoms. Let our sleep medicine experts help you identify the root cause of your bruxism so you can protect your teeth and improve your sleep health.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier night’s sleep.
FAQs About Bruxism
Q: Why do people grind their teeth at night?
A: The exact cause of sleep-related bruxism is often unknown, but it is often linked to stress, anxiety, or an aggressive personality type. However, it is also strongly associated with other sleep disorders, particularly Obstructive Sleep Apnea, where a person grinds or clenches their jaw to try to open a blocked airway.
Q: What are the health consequences of bruxism?
A: Bruxism can lead to a number of dental and medical issues. Common consequences include worn-down or fractured teeth, tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, TMJ disorder, headaches, and chronic facial pain. It can also disrupt your sleep and lead to daytime fatigue.
Q: How is bruxism diagnosed?
A: A dentist can often diagnose bruxism by looking for signs of wear and tear on your teeth and jaw. However, to understand if it is linked to a sleep disorder, a sleep specialist may recommend a sleep study to monitor for jaw clenching and grinding and to check for breathing issues at the same time.