Why do people grind their teeth?
Sep 24, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, bruxism may be caused by factors such as malocclusion, nutritional imbalance, psychological and emotional stress, indigestion, or intestinal ascariasis. Treatment options include general management and medication. It is important to maintain emotional stability, follow a balanced diet, and avoid prolonged unilateral chewing to help prevent the occurrence of bruxism.
Under normal circumstances, bruxism may be caused by factors such as malocclusion, nutritional imbalance, excessive mental stress, indigestion, or intestinal ascariasis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Malocclusion
Misaligned teeth or habits such as chewing on one side of the mouth can lead to abnormal occlusion, causing the masticatory muscles to remain tense during sleep and resulting in teeth grinding. It is important to correct poor chewing habits and undergo regular dental check-ups.
2. Nutritional Imbalance
A monotonous diet may lead to deficiencies in micronutrients such as vitamin D and calcium, affecting the normal function of nerves and muscles. This can cause involuntary contraction of the masticatory muscles during sleep, leading to bruxism. Maintain a balanced diet in daily life and consume more foods rich in vitamin D and calcium, such as eggs and fish.
3. Excessive Mental Stress
Prolonged anxiety, depression, or tension can cause an imbalance between excitation and inhibition in the cerebral cortex, thereby triggering bruxism. Regular relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or yoga may help alleviate symptoms.
4. Indigestion
Indigestion is often associated with excessive gastric acid secretion or weakened gastrointestinal motility, leading to food retention that stimulates the gastrointestinal tract and increases neural excitability, which may result in bruxism. Symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain may also occur. It is recommended to take medications such as domperidone tablets, mosapride citrate dispersible tablets, or compound digestive enzyme capsules under medical supervision.
5. Intestinal Ascariasis
Intestinal ascariasis is typically caused by ingestion of infective Ascaris eggs. The worms move within the intestines and secrete toxins that stimulate the nervous system, increasing neural excitability and potentially causing bruxism. Additional symptoms may include abdominal pain and loss of appetite. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications such as albendazole tablets, piperazine phosphate tablets, or metronidazole tablets to relieve symptoms.
To prevent bruxism, it is important to maintain emotional stability, eat a balanced diet, and avoid prolonged unilateral chewing.
