Roar splints

Bruxism is a parafunctional (abnormal) habit characterized by the clenching or grinding of teeth, which can occur both during the day and unconsciously during nighttime sleep.

It occurs in a significant number of people, including children. Patients often recognize the problem of bruxism either by noticing that they are clenching their teeth during the day or from the noise produced by grinding their teeth at night. A large portion of the population may not be aware that they are bruxists.

Bruxists typically exhibit certain characteristic symptoms, some of which may disappear when bruxism stops. These symptoms do not always appear and can vary in severity among individuals.  

The most characteristic symptoms include the following:

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  Headaches (primarily upon waking in the morning).
• Pain in the area of the ear (not related to ear pathology such as otitis).
• Muscle pain or tightness in the facial area,  temples, neck, or shoulders.
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  Pain during chewing.
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  Difficulty opening the mouth.
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  Discomfort or sounds in the area of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
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  Noises from teeth grinding during sleep.
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  Characteristic wear on the chewing and cutting surfaces of the teeth.
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  Cracks and fractures in teeth, fillings, and dental restorations.
• Tooth sensitivity.
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  Impressions on the sides of the tongue.