What is bruxism?
Parafunctional activity or bruxism (clenching and / or grinding) is becoming an ever increasing problem and causative factor behind many dental complications primarily due to the magnitude of forces involved (up to five times normal bite force) combined with dentitions mechanically compromised through the very act of dentistry. Associated dental breakdown typically presents as being localised, bilateral and advanced in nature. Once teeth are stabilized and the condition is reversibly controlled, usually via splint therapy, emphasis is placed on trying to harmonise the relationships between teeth, joints and the neuromusculature so as to distribute occlusal force as well as possible, thereby improving overall treatment prognosis. This, however, does not necessarily prevent the condition, otherwise linked to compromised sleep patterns. Once one learns the habit, one tends to retain the habit and hence, for many, continued splint compliance is often strongly recommended. In essence, I vie
