Bruxism is the name given to the habit of grinding the teeth and clenching the jaw.
It is an involuntary habit which can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms from migraines and jaw pain to dental problems due to the wear on teeth.
For many people, the problem occurs while they’re asleep, which makes it very difficult control. Even while awake, you may not even be aware that you’re doing it.
It can be very annoying to repeatedly find yourself doing it over and over again; and can also be irritating for those around, who fail to understand why you can’t just stop; despite frequent reminders.
Bruxism also tends to get worse when you’re stressed or concentrating.
Bruxism Symptoms
Common symptoms of teeth grinding include:
- Headaches, earache, migraine
- Facial pain, discomfort, stiffness in the jaw joint and muscles
- Disrupted sleep (for you or your partner)
- Worn teeth, which can lead to dental problems such as sensitivity, broken teeth or fillings
Bruxism Treatment
Depending on the condition and symptoms, there are a number of options to consider:
- In some cases, dental restoration is required – anything from fillings to costly implants or crowns
- Where bruxism is stress related, then it may be worth seeing a GP to explore potential treatment
- Your dentist may be able to provide a mouth guard or splint to reduce the clenching/grinding
- Muscle relaxing injections are now available to relax overactive muscles
Injections for Bruxism
Dr Barbara Kubicka at Clinicbe in Knightsbridge specialises in treatment of bruxism using botulinum toxin injections (i.e. BOTOX®, Azzalure, Bocouture).
More commonly associated with lines and wrinkles, botulinum toxin works to slow or even ‘freeze’ the muscles causing facial movement.
In the case of bruxism, a few well-judged injections into the muscles around the mouth can be just enough to prevent the subconscious grinding and clenching action.
Treatment lasts a few months after which time it can be repeated if required.
However, the good news is that for some patients, just one treatment is sufficient to break the cycle and stop the habit from returning in the future.
Find out more about bruxism treatment.
Clinicbe®, London
Advanced Non-Surgical Treatments
Clinicbe® in London was founded by experienced Aesthetic Physician Dr Barbara Kubicka MD, CIME/ICAM, MBCAM; a renowned Aesthetic Physician based in West London.
Dr Kubicka takes a holistic approach to treatments; taking time to understand the condition fully with a comprehensive medical history and discussion before recommending the best options for treating the patient as a whole, in order to get the best possible results from any treatments they may have.
The clinic is based in the Knightsbridge area, easily accessible from and popular with those living or working in Chelsea and Mayfair.
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please contact us on 0207 125 0521 or email info@clinicbe.com.
