Bruxism
Description
Bruxism is essentially a grinding of teeth during sleep. It is thought by some to be a remnant of an instinct to sharpen the teeth. It is usually associated with sleep disorders and may relate to stress.
Of course, if it is a reaction to stress, the painful masticatory muscles, teeth and TMJ which result will haunt the sufferer afterwards. It can become a chronic situation.
The term also applies to clenching the teeth during waking hours, so-called: "daydreaming", at which time it may be a symptom of an underlying epleptic disorder.
Causes
Bruxism seems to be primarily related to poor quality sleep due to stress. It can, then, be self-perpetuating, even resulting in dental deformation and TMJ problems and related symptoms, like site tenderness and headaches. These can ruin one's day and further undermine the sleep pattern, which repeats itself again and again, most likely in a deteriorating fashion.
Signs & Symptoms
The sufferer is usually oblivious to bruxism, on a conscious level. However, in severe cases, the symptoms may be self-recognized, or diagnosed upon presentation to a physician, or detected by a dentist during examination.
Teeth can become worn down and loose. The inside of the gums may also be damaged. Other symptoms of TMJ are likely to be present, including: tenderness, "popping" sounds, malalignment etc.
A sleeping partner, or supervising parent, may even hear grinding noises during the night.
In some cases, the person, can exhibit these behaviors in a very obvious manner, while in a "daydream" at a school desk, while riding in the car, or at the dinner table, in front of family, friends, classmates and teachers or whomever.
Nutritional Supplements
Structure & Function:
Multi Vitamins/Multi Mineral Formulas &
Bone Support
---------------------------------
General Supplements
---------------------------------
| Calcium | 1,500 - 2,000 mg |
| Chromium | 200 mcg |
| Magnesium | 750 mg |
| Vitamin B5 | 500 mg |
| Zinc | 50 mg |
*Please refer to the respective topic for specific nutrient amounts.
Note: All amounts are in addition to those supplements having a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). Due to individual needs, one must always be aware of a possible undetermined effect when taking nutritional supplements. If any disturbances from the use of a particular supplement should occur, stop its use immediately and seek the care of a qualified health care professional.
Dietary Considerations
A hypoglycemic diet may be recommended.
Restrict simple sugars and other carbohydrates close to bedtime.
Avoid alcohol.
Homeopathic Remedy
| Description | Remedy |
| Nerves | Natrum carbonicum |
| Worms | Artemisia vulgaris / |
| Chenopodium anthelminticum |
Treatment Schedule
Over-the-counter homeopathic remedies may be single strength (of fairly weak potency e.g. 6X ) or a blend of several weaker strengths (6X, 8X, 10X).
This may comprise a single remedy, or several remedies.
Doses are administered on a 3 times daily (tid), between meals,schedule and continued for 3 days.
Liquid preparations usually use 8-10 drops per dose.
Solid preparations are usually 2 or 3 pellets per dose.
Children use 1/2 dose i.e. 1 pellet.
If there is aggravation of the symptoms, stop taking the remedy and consult a homeopath.
References
Murphy, R. : Homeopathic Medical Repertory. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1993.
Murphy, R. : Lotus Materia Medica. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1995.
Pert, J.C.: Homeopathy for the Family. The Homoeopathic Development Foundation, London. 1985 edition.
Tissue Salts
Herbal Approaches
----------
Herbs
-----------
Horsetail
Tansy
Note: The misdirected use of an herb can produce severely adverse effects, especially in combination with prescription drugs. This Herbal information is for educational purposes and is not intended as a replacement for medical advice.
Aromatherapy - Essential Oils
Valerian Essence.
Related Health Conditions
Epilepsy
Headache
Periodontal disease
TMJ
References
Barthlen-GM & Stacy-C: Dyssomnias, parasomnias, and sleep disorders associated with medical and psychiatric diseases. Mt-Sinai-J-Med. 1994 Mar; 61(2): 139-59.
Hendler-N et al: Diagnosis and treatment of muscle tension headaches Physician-Assistant, 1991 Dec; 15(12): 72, 74, 77 passim (42 ref)
Kampe T et al., Reported symptoms and clinical findings in a group of subjects with longstanding bruxing behaviour. J Oral Rehabil, 1997 Aug, 24:8, 581-7.
Kleinberg-I: Bruxism: aetiology, clinical signs and symptoms. Aust-Prosthodont-J. 1994; 8: 9-17.
Lavigne-GJ: Restless legs syndrome and sleep bruxism: prevalence and association among Canadians. Sleep. 1994 Dec; 17(8): 739-43
Thompson-BA et al: Treatment approaches to bruxism. Am-Fam-Physician. 1994 May 15; 49(7): 1617-22.
| Signup Free Applied Health Journal |
||||
|
FREE Sample Issue Your email address is all we need to start you on a better path to health. We respect your privacy.
|
