Teeth clenching is raising alarms among young people: What causes bruxism? How can it be prevented?

While exam periods, stressful work environments, and intense psychological pressures increase the risk of teeth clenching in young people, short-term teeth clenching behaviors can also be seen in children during periods of tooth transition. There are other factors that are effective in the development of bruxism. Anxiety, sleep disorders, dental problems (such as malocclusion), certain antidepressants, and neurological diseases are among the primary factors.

TEETH CLENCHING CAN BE DANGEROUS IN THE LONG TERM

When teeth clenching and grinding occur unconsciously during sleep, they lead to tooth wear, sensitivity, jaw joint pain, and problems in the head and neck muscles in the long term. If left untreated for a long time, it causes permanent damage to the tooth structure and serious functional losses in the jaw joint.

IT CAN BE PREVENTED WITH EARLY DIAGNOSIS

Stating that the problems caused by teeth clenching can be prevented with early diagnosis and correct intervention, Merve Çakır, a faculty member at İstanbul Okan University Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Oral, Dental and Maxillofacial Surgery, also has a few suggestions to reduce the effects of teeth clenching:

Reduce: Develop methods to reduce your stress (exercise, meditation, hobbies).

Change: Change your sleep routine. Acquire a habit of regular and quality sleep.

Relax: Perform exercises that relax the jaw muscles.

Set limits: Limit your caffeine and alcohol consumption.

Do not neglect: Do not neglect your dental check-ups.