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What Happens if Bruxism Goes Untreated?
When bruxism goes on without intervention, the teeth may begin to crack, show signs of enamel wear, and lead to a painful jaw condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
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Is it Bruxism or Sleep Apnea?
While stress is by far the greatest cause of bruxism, nighttime teeth grinding also shows up as a secondary symptom of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition where the airways become restricted during sleep, reducing vital oxygen to the lungs, blood, and brain. When sleep apnea occurs, the brain stimulates the jaw in order to push it forward and allow air to pass through the larynx. If someone has commented that you stop breathing or snore at night be sure to discuss this issue with your family doctor and sign up for a sleep study. And, if your CPAP machine or other sleep apnea-correcting procedure does not stop the bruxism, schedule a visit with us at Bonnie Doon Denture Clinic. Most sleep apnea therapies can be used alongside night guards.