Relationship between Temporomandibular Disorders and Sleep Bruxism
News/Blog
News/Blog
News/Blog
Relationship between Temporomandibular Disorders and Sleep Bruxism
There is a clear bidirectional causal relationship and vicious cycle between temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and nocturnal bruxism (sleep-related bruxism).
1.Nocturnal bruxism is one of the most important risk factors for TMD.Nocturnal non-functional clenching and grinding cause hyperactivity and sustained spasm of the masseter and temporalis muscles, resulting in significantly increased loading of the masticatory muscles. Meanwhile, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is exposed to abnormal, repetitive impact and shear forces, leading to disc displacement, joint injury, pain, clicking, and dysfunction, thus inducing or exacerbating TMD.
2.TMD can also induce or aggravate nocturnal bruxism in reverse.When pain, clicking, disc displacement, or occlusal instability exists in the TMJ, the central nervous system tends to seek a “comfortable occlusal position” through reflexive grinding and clenching, leading to unconscious bruxism during sleep.Joint pain and muscle tension further disrupt sleep architecture and reinforce abnormal nocturnal masticatory muscle activity, forming a vicious cycle.
3.Common risk factorsPsychological stress, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, occlusal abnormalities, and harmful oral habits can both trigger bruxism and worsen TMD.
4.Clinical implicationsEvaluation for nocturnal bruxism is essential in the diagnosis and management of TMD.A key treatment strategy is the use of occlusal splints / stabilization splints to interrupt muscle spasm, protect the joint and dentition, and break the vicious cycle.
5.If you think the hospitals in Hong Kong are too expensive, you can come to us for examination and treatment. If our clinic can't solve your problem, please ask Mr. Wheat (WhatApp 852 92145116), the assistant of dentists at Vickong Dental, to help you make an appointment at a public hospital in Shenzhen for treatment.
