Why do men grind their teeth when they sleep? Can men’s teeth grinding while sleeping be cured?

Bruxism refers to the habit of grinding teeth during sleep or unconsciously during the day. It gradually worsens over time and is a long-term vicious cycle disease. So what is the reason why men grind their teeth when they sleep?

Reasons why men grind their teeth

1. Central nervous system factors

We go from being awake to falling asleep and then waking up again in cycles, and bruxism occurs at a specific time in a sleep cycle. The muscles responsible for chewing begin to contract regularly and involuntarily. At the same time, there is increased electrical activity in the cerebral cortex, irregular breathing, accelerated heartbeat, increased blood pressure, etc.

2. Psychological factors

Teeth grinding is a way to release emotions such as anxiety and tension.

A survey shows that the probability of bruxism is higher among people who often work night shifts, are under great pressure, and are easily nervous. At the same time, the levels of several hormones in their bodies that can indicate a person's anxiety level are higher than average.

3. External stimulation

Exogenous factors such as drinking, drinking coffee, smoking, and taking drugs can also cause or aggravate bruxism.

4. Certain diseases

For example, Parkinson's disease, sleepwalking, depression and other diseases that affect our motor function, sleep conditions and psychological problems may all have symptoms of bruxism.

5. Others

Genetics and eating habits are also related to bruxism.

treat

1. Psychotherapy

There are indeed psychological factors that cause excessive tension in the jaw muscles. Eliminate tension, relieve unnecessary worries, and arrange work reasonably. Take diazepam tablets orally if necessary (may cause dependence).

2. Reduce brain excitement

Resting and relaxing before going to bed, doing proper gymnastics, avoiding stimulating foods and smoking, and improving the sleeping environment can help reduce the brain's excitement. Mobilize the patient's self-awareness and self-control psychological effect to reduce the occurrence of bruxism. The effect is very small.

3. Muscle relaxation therapy

Excessive tension in the jaw muscles is one of the causes of bruxism. Relieving excessive muscle tension during treatment is a necessary means to control bruxism. Commonly used methods include: the use of muscle relaxants; physical therapy, training of the physiological functions of the masticatory muscles; massage; audio-visual cues and other methods. The effect is very small.

4. Wake-up stimulation during sleep

Through biofeedback, the patient is awakened by electrical signals such as sound when teeth grinding occurs, thereby temporarily stopping teeth grinding. Some researchers have performed temporary afferent electrical stimulation on the lips, and the results showed that it was effective in controlling bruxism. However, this method interferes with the sleep of patients and their cohabitants and is not effective in the long term.

5. Adjust occlusal treatment

By grinding a small amount of tooth tissue, removing occlusal interference and premature occlusal contact, and establishing an occlusal balance, a physiological balance between the teeth, jaws, masticatory muscles, and temporomandibular joints can be achieved, thus eliminating bruxism. For patients with malocclusion, orthodontics or restoration are performed first.