Bruxism is when people grind, clench or gnash their teeth unconsciously when they are asleep or awake. It is thought at about 50% of the population have grinded their teeth at some time or another. Fortunately, it is not a dangerous condition and treatable through hypnosis.
Why do people grind their teeth?
People grind their teeth for a variety of reasons. These can be both physical and physiological. The reason why some people develop bruxism is not always clear but can be linked to:
• Abnormal/misalignment of teeth
• Stress, anxiety, anger and frustration
• Caffeine and alcohol consumption
• Use of certain medications including antidepressants and amphetamines
• Pain responses to teething and earache in children
What are the symptoms of bruxism?
The symptoms of bruxism are as varied as its causes. Each person’s symptoms are different and unique to them. People may experience one or more of the following bruxism signs:
• Aching jaw and facial muscles
• Limited movement of the jaw
• Headaches
• Jaw clenching when angry, anxious or concentrating
• Anxiety, depression and/or stress
• Inflamed gums
• Sensitive and/or worn down teeth/tooth enamel
• Mobile teeth
• Raised cheek issue inside of mouth due to cheek biting
• Tooth marks on tongue
• Chronic facial pain
• Earache
• Shoulder stiffness and tension
• Sleep disruption
• Waking up of partner in the middle of the night
How can bruxism be treated?
Hypnosis has been used for many years to successfully treat teeth grinding. Many studies over recent years have shown the advantages of using hypnotherapy to solve bruxism. A hypnotherapist can use a variety of techniques to create a tailor-made program based on a person’s symptoms and the root cause of the bruxism. By creating a program unique to each person, a hypnotherapist’s objective is to:
• Help eliminate any underlying problems
• Help to resolve and deal with stress and its triggers
• Help to build confidence and create a positive frame of mind
How to Book an Appointment
Appointments can be booked by calling Jan direct on 1300 226 987.
Please note:
Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice will incur the full appointment fee unless we are able to reschedule within a fortnight.
References
LaCrosse M. B. Ph.D. (1994) “Understanding Change: Five-Year Follow-up of Brief Hypnotic Treatment of Chronic Bruxism” American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis Volume 36, Issue 4, 1994
Dowd T.E. (2013) “Nocturnal Bruxism and Hypnotherapy: A Case Study” International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis Volume 61, Issue 2, 2013
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