Bruxism and Depression: is There a Link?
Bruxism is the medical term given to the ghastly habit of grinding the teeth. Most people who are suffering from this condition don't know about it, for they usually clench their teeth during their sleep. Several studies show that bruxism may be related to a person's state of mind. Depressed individuals tend to grind their teeth while they sleep for certain reasons.
In a certain medical research, it was found out that bruxism could be a person's response to hidden aggressions, anxieties, and fears. People who tend to keep their emotions to themselves are likely to express it in some other ways. And so during the night, they unconsciously and uncontrollably gnash their teeth.
Depressed individuals, especially those who are not aware of their condition, tend to turn to alcohol to forget about their problems. This is another reason they tend to suffer from bruxism. Alcohol is known to aggravate bruxism.
To treat teeth grinding due to depression, the role of are nutrition, therapy, and anti-depressants come into play. Calcium is the nutrient most recommended for depressed patients suffering from bruxism. It is advisable for such patients to follow a high-calcium diet to help regulate the involuntary movement of their jaw muscles.
However, calcium rich foods from dairy products are not enough. It is also important to take in magnesium that is commonly found in wholegrain, so that calcium can be assimilated. Both calcium and magnesium can correct the poor functions of the muscles and helps calm and control the central nervous system.
Depression patients are advised to go through their regular counseling sessions to fully address their condition. This is best coupled with behavioral correction therapies that can help treat tooth grinding as well. Psychiatrists may prescribe antidepressant drugs to their patients. It is essential to take these drugs regularly as per the instructions of the health expert.
There are also herbal remedies that can help address the cases of teeth grinding that is related to depression. The use of natural herbs and teas can help a lot in releasing tension, stress, and anxiety. The herbs of choice that works especially for this purpose are passionflower, peppermint, hops, fennel, and lemon balm. Drink any of these teas an hour before going to bed for a more relaxed, restful sleep.
Teeth grinding and emotional problems are interrelated. This is the reason why it is very important to know the root cause of the bruxism for the proper treatment to be carried out. A healthy state of mind and good balance of emotions can help a lot in managing teeth grinding and its effects on one's health.
Related Tags: bruxism, teeth grinding
Find out more about grinding teeth, its causes and symptoms, treatments for teeth grinding and mouth night guards at TeethGrindingCure.com!
Your Article Search Directory : Find in ArticlesRecent articles in this category:
- Aesthetic and Implant Dental Specialists
Dentistry is developing and so are the sub-specialties that DDS's work within. As consumers becom - Zip...zap...zoom! Tooth Whitening in One Hour
Years of bad habits (cigarette smoking, tobacco use) and indulgence in certain beverages (soda, ju - Complete Your Smile With Dental Implants
If something is missing from your smile, you can fill in the gaps with a safe, effective and afford - Symptoms of Tmd
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) occurs when the joint connecting your upper and lower jaw go - Get Rid of the Mercury and Smile
In the past, dentists used an amalgam type of material to fill cavities in teeth. This consisted of - Periodontal Treatment for Gum Disease
About 30 to 50% of all Americans suffer from periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is gum disea - What is Dental Bonding?
The dental bonding procedure utilizes a tooth-colored, naturally-looking resin (a durable plastic) - Teeth Around the World
Bharat Book.com is glad to promote a new report, Global Dental/Dentistry Devices Industry Report: D - How to Get Rid of Bad Breath in Easy Ways
Bad breath is also known as halitosis. It may be caused due to a variety of reasons. Before looking - Tmd Diagnosis
TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) is diagnosed and treated by a neuromuscular dentist. It has
Most viewed articles in this category:
- Aesthetic and Implant Dental Specialists
Dentistry is developing and so are the sub-specialties that DDS's work within. As consumers becom - Zip...zap...zoom! Tooth Whitening in One Hour
Years of bad habits (cigarette smoking, tobacco use) and indulgence in certain beverages (soda, ju - Complete Your Smile With Dental Implants
If something is missing from your smile, you can fill in the gaps with a safe, effective and afford - Symptoms of Tmd
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) occurs when the joint connecting your upper and lower jaw go - Get Rid of the Mercury and Smile
In the past, dentists used an amalgam type of material to fill cavities in teeth. This consisted of - Periodontal Treatment for Gum Disease
About 30 to 50% of all Americans suffer from periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is gum disea - What is Dental Bonding?
The dental bonding procedure utilizes a tooth-colored, naturally-looking resin (a durable plastic) - Teeth Around the World
Bharat Book.com is glad to promote a new report, Global Dental/Dentistry Devices Industry Report: D - How to Get Rid of Bad Breath in Easy Ways
Bad breath is also known as halitosis. It may be caused due to a variety of reasons. Before looking - Tmd Diagnosis
TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) is diagnosed and treated by a neuromuscular dentist. It has